Business Details
Justice Through Legal Prosecution in El Dorado County
Since 1850, our office has dedicated itself to the pursuit of justice through objective investigation and prosecution of legal matters while upholding the dignity of all individuals. With a team of over 57 professionals, we specialize in criminal prosecution, fraud prevention, elder abuse protection, and cold case resolution. Our office demonstrates extensive experience through landmark cases like the exoneration of Ricky Davis using forensic genetic genealogy and pioneering science-based interrogation reforms.We maintain authoritativeness through national leadership roles in prosecutorial associations and legislative contributions to public safety laws. Our trustworthiness is evidenced by transparent practices in officer-involved shootings, victim-centered approaches, and technological innovations like drone-based crime scene reconstruction.
Services
Criminal Prosecution
Fraud Investigations
Elder Abuse Protection
Cold Case Taskforce
Victim Advocacy
Legislative Reform
Crime Scene Reconstruction
Officer Training
Public Safety Initiatives
Community Outreach
Highlights and features
- We have over 170 years of continuous service to El Dorado County
- Our team includes nationally recognized prosecutorial innovators
- We pioneered forensic genetic genealogy in criminal investigations
- We maintain a 95% conviction integrity rate through science-based reforms
- Our office holds leadership roles in statewide prosecutorial associations
Services
Criminal Prosecution
Our office prosecutes felony and misdemeanor cases ranging from violent crimes to complex financial fraud. We work closely with law enforcement agencies to build evidence-based cases that withstand judicial scrutiny. Our approach combines traditional investigative methods with cutting-edge technologies like drone-based crime scene documentation.
Cold Case Investigations
Specialized units reinvestigate unsolved homicides using modern forensic techniques. We employ forensic investigative genetic genealogy and advanced DNA analysis to solve decades-old cases while maintaining rigorous scientific standards throughout the process.
Fraud Prevention
We combat insurance fraud, consumer protection violations, and financial exploitation through dedicated units. Our services include public education programs, fraud hotline operations, and collaboration with regulatory agencies to protect residents from economic crimes.
Victim Advocacy
Our Victim Witness Program provides comprehensive support including crisis counseling, court accompaniment, and restitution assistance. Advocates work directly with victims of crime throughout the legal process to minimize trauma and ensure their voices are heard.
Legislative Reform
We draft and advocate for laws that enhance public safety and victim protections. Our legislative initiatives include Evidence Code 1109 for domestic violence survivors and SB 2005 banning sex offenders from teaching positions, reflecting our commitment to systemic improvements.
People
Vern Pierson
District Attorney
Serving since 2007, DA Pierson has prosecuted over 100 jury trials and led major reforms in prosecutorial practices. A former Army officer, he holds law and homeland security degrees and has authored significant legislation improving public safety.
Richard Pesce
Chief Investigator
With 20+ years in law enforcement, Chief Pesce designed our paperless case management system and investigated high-profile cases including the Garrido kidnappings. He holds FAA certification for drone-based crime scene documentation.
Bryan Kuhlmann
Lieutenant
A former Army Combat Medic, Lt. Kuhlmann has investigated homicides, political corruption, and officer-involved shootings. He received multiple awards for investigative excellence during his 14-year tenure with our office.
Questions
Can I report a crime directly to the District Attorney?
Most crimes require initial reporting to local law enforcement. However, consumer fraud, insurance fraud, and environmental crimes can be reported directly to our office.
How do I access victim compensation services?
Contact our Victim Witness Assistance Program at (530) 642-4760 for help with medical expenses and lost wages related to criminal cases.
What services does the Cold Case Taskforce provide?
We investigate unsolved homicides using modern forensic techniques like genetic genealogy to bring justice to long-unsolved cases.
How can I report elder abuse?
Call Adult Protective Services at (800) 510-2020 or contact our Fraud Hotline at (866) 629-0171 for elder abuse reporting.
What fraud types does your office handle?
We investigate insurance fraud, workers' compensation fraud, real estate fraud, and consumer protection violations across El Dorado County.
Videos
