Portsmouth Commonwealth’s Attorney Stephanie Morales is campaigning for a third full term in office against two notable challengers, Nathan Chapman and Steve Heretick. Both challengers, running as independents, argue that Morales’s administration has been marred by significant errors, leading to the dismissal of crucial cases.
Chapman, aged 55, is entering the political arena for the first time, while Heretick, 65, brings prior experience as a Portsmouth City Council member and a state delegate. Their candidacies reflect growing concerns about the performance of the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office, particularly during Morales’s tenure.
Over the years, several cases have been dismissed due to procedural mistakes attributed to the office. Notably, a murder case was dismissed last year after a judge found that prosecutors had violated the defendant’s right to a speedy trial. Furthermore, all charges against an individual accused of killing four people at a Portsmouth boarding house were dropped, as the prosecution failed to present sufficient evidence. In 2023, judges dismissed multiple charges against an operator of an illegal daycare following similar failures in providing required information.
Currently, Morales’s office operates with about half the number of prosecutors it is funded to employ. This staffing shortage has raised concerns, particularly as two of her attorneys have faced multiple suspensions of their law licenses. Chapman emphasized the impact of this staffing issue, stating, “She can’t get people to work there because the office’s reputation is so bad.”
While Morales acknowledges that staffing challenges exist, she points out that other Commonwealth’s Attorney offices in the Hampton Roads area are either fully staffed or nearly so. She has implemented strategies aimed at improving recruitment and retention, which include enhanced training and partnerships with law schools.
In response to criticisms regarding case dismissals, Morales stated her commitment to continuous improvement. “As with any public institution, continuous improvement is essential. We are consistently working to strengthen internal systems, enhance training, and expand the tools available to our attorneys and staff,” she noted in an email. Her office is focusing on streamlining case preparation and upgrading technology to ensure that every case receives due attention.
Heretick has voiced strong concerns over the mistakes made under Morales’s leadership, labeling them as “inexcusable.” He pointed out that such errors are not a common occurrence in other Commonwealth’s Attorney offices across Virginia, emphasizing that the frequency of dismissals reflects poorly on Morales’s management.
Morales remains steadfast in her support of her staff, asserting their professionalism and dedication. “Prosecutors must handle complex cases with precision, and while outcomes may vary, we will never compromise our duty to pursue justice ethically and responsibly,” she stated.
The race for Commonwealth’s Attorney has garnered attention not only for its candidates but also for their endorsements. Chapman has received backing from the local Fraternal Order of Police and the Police Benevolent Association. Heretick counts among his supporters several current and former local politicians, including Vice Mayor Bill Moody and former Vice Mayor Elizabeth Psimas. In contrast, Morales has secured endorsements from prominent state leaders, including Virginia House Speaker Don Scott and U.S. Rep. Bobby Scott.
In terms of fundraising, Morales leads the pack with over $97,000 raised this year, according to Virginia Public Access Project. Heretick trails closely with $87,000 collected since joining the race in May, while Chapman has garnered $21,000.
The candidates have highlighted their respective priorities if elected. Chapman and Heretick both aim to fully staff the office and rebuild its relationship with local law enforcement and the community. Chapman has also expressed a desire to dedicate resources to asset seizures from convicted criminals and investigate cold cases, along with tackling juvenile violence, which he describes as alarmingly high in Portsmouth.
Morales, if re-elected, plans to enhance crime prevention programs, support victims and survivors, and improve case management through better technology and data systems.
As the election approaches, the candidates are vying not only for votes but also for the confidence of a community anxious to see improvements in the local justice system.
