Year-End Report 2024: Milestones and leadership transition at Houston County DA’s Office
The Houston County District Attorney's Office reflects on a year of accomplishments, while also preparing for a pivotal leadership transition in the year ahead.
MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – As 2024 comes to a close, the Houston County District Attorney’s Office reflects on a year of accomplishments, while also preparing for a pivotal leadership transition in the year ahead.
The District Attorney’s Office released the following statistics from previous years (dating back before COVID-19) for comparison:
- Case Closures by Year:
2018: 2796
2019: 3057
2020: 2296
2021: 2235
2022: 4002 (Increased trial weeks to compensate for court closures brought on by COVID-19)
2023: 4051
2024: 3905 - Total Documented Victim Contacts/Services:
2018: 22,345
2019: 26,786
2020: 32,463
2021: 29,758
2022: 32,610
2023: 41,935
2024: 61,987 - Warrants Received from Law Enforcement:
2021: 9,723
2022: 12,401
2023: 12,222
2024: 12,646
2024 Number of Charges Accused/Indicted (Number of Individual Counts/Charges): 5,630
District Attorney William Kendall released the following statement:
“Closing out 2024 also means, the expiration of my term as your DA. I am eternally grateful to our great Governor, Governor Kemp, as I have enjoyed my time over the past 3 years, representing The People of Houston County and seeking to make an impact on criminal activity. From more than 100 arrest derived from the County Narcotics Task Force I empaneled, the seizure of enough fentanyl to kill every citizen in the county and record setting case closures year after year. We have funded law enforcement, giving over $450,000 back to law enforcement for equipment, programs and training, equipped law enforcement and first responders with NarCan and proactively went after gang members and probationers in various joint operations over the years. Additionally, because of the great team here at the DA’s Office and amazing Court Staff, we have closed more than 11,900 cases during my time as DA, and made over 120,000 victim contacts and service referral, a record for our office. In short, I feel our team has made an impact for the betterment of our community. Knowing I left the office better than what I found it brings me joy as I depart her ranks and wish the office farewell. I am thankful for the ADA’s, Investigators and support staff who I have been able to work with in accomplishing so much, without them it would only be a goal or an idea—they make it possible. I wish my office well and know that they will be in great hands with Mr. Edwards at the helm. They undoubtedly will carry on the mission of serving The People, seeking justice and setting new records as good public servants. With that said, thank you to my staff, mentors, Judges, courthouse Staff, the people of Houston County and most importantly, my family who have endured the late-night calls, the long hours and public eye. Semper Fi, Will Kendall, District Attorney, Houston County.”
District Attorney Elect Eric Edwards released the following statement:
“As we close out another productive year, I am incredibly proud of the work our office has accomplished under the leadership of District Attorney Will Kendall. In the last three years, we have achieved record numbers of case closures—a testament to our commitment to justice and efficiency. These results have not come at the expense of crime victims; we have remained steadfast in ensuring cases are resolved based on their merits, and this balance reflects the dedication and professionalism of our team in serving the people of Houston County. Looking ahead to the new year, I am excited to carry on this commitment as I step into the role of District Attorney. In 2025, we are scheduled to have eight additional trial weeks compared to 2024. This addition will enable us to expedite the resolution of cases that have yet to reach trial, ensuring timely justice for the people of Houston County. I look forward to working alongside our talented team to deliver fair and effective outcomes while continuing to uphold the integrity of our office and the trust of the public.”
