FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  

January 24, 2024                                                                                                 

Contact: info@wagstaffforda.com

White Plains, N.Y. - William O. Wagstaff III’s campaign for Westchester District Attorney bolstered support with the announcement of four endorsements from prominent Westchester County Democratic Councilmembers.

Wagstaff, a respected attorney, proven civil rights advocate, and steadfast social justice champion, welcomed the endorsements of Democratic leaders Andrés Castillo, Bedford Town Board; Gina Jackson, Greenburgh Town Board; Cathlin Gleason, Mount Vernon City Council President; and Shane Osinloye, New Rochelle City Council.

“I’m honored by the endorsements from elected officials representing a diverse swath of communities across our county,” said William Wagstaff. “Having Democratic leaders intimately attest to my ability to make Westchester safer, stronger, and fairer further proves I can bring the real change our justice system needs.”

"I’m endorsing William Wagstaff for Westchester County District Attorney because he represents progress, innovation, and compassion. When elected, he would not only make history as the first person of color to hold this seat but would also expand programs to support communities that are unfairly and disproportionately impacted by the criminal justice system,” said Andrés Castillo, Bedford Town Board. “In addition to leading an esteemed legal practice specializing in civil rights, criminal defense, and municipal law, William holds a master’s degree in business administration, which will enable him to provide both highly effective management and data-driven initiatives for the DA office."

Wagstaff, thanking Castillo, echoed that he will “implement data-driven solutions to both combat and prevent gun violence, hate crimes, domestic violence, and property crime” as Westchester DA.

"I am absolutely certain that William Wagstaff possesses the necessary skills and qualities to be the next Westchester County District Attorney,” stated Gina Jackson, Greenburgh Town Board. “His unwavering dedication to integrity and fairness, which are paramount in today's society, further strengthens my confidence in his ability to fulfill this role."

Jackson’s support reflects Wagstaff’s lifelong commitment to justice, including his service as a Special Prosecutor for Police Disciplinary Hearings, being Chair of the African American Men of Westchester Mentoring Committee, and being on the Board of Directors for the Legal Aid Society of Westchester.

"I have personally worked alongside William O. Wagstaff III for over a decade. William takes great pride in every case he takes on. He works feverishly, never leaving any stone unturned,”  Cathlin Gleason, Mount Vernon City Council President said. “We need someone in the Westchester County DA's office who cares that everyone in Westchester remains safe, regardless of zip code, while understanding it’s equally important that cases are resolved equitably. William is a standout attorney who's tirelessly advocated for the People! The People matter!!! Which is why I am unequivocally endorsing him for Westchester County DA."

Wagstaff, a Mount Vernon native, has served as the City’s Special Prosecutor for Police Discpline and as Special Counsel and Chair of the Judicial Appointment Committee for Mayor Shawyn Patterson-Howard, who endorsed him last week. 

"I have seen William O. Wagstaff in action on the front lines of our communities. Mr Wagstaff is a tireless advocate and polished voice of reason during difficult times. District Attorney is a grave role, requiring a leader who understands that the decisions they make from moment to moment will impact individual lives, families, and communities. William demonstrates a deeply contemplative temperament that should be a prerequisite to serving as district attorney. As policymakers seek restorative justice practices to deliver tangible equity, we need partners in the judicial realm who are dedicated to achieving justice in its truest form," added Shane Osinloye, New Rochelle City Council.

The endorsements build on the momentum of Wagstaff last week announcing $102,000 raised for his 2024 election campaign. Wagstaff’s continued success positions him as a clear frontrunner in the narrowing race of three candidates for the Democratic primary.

“The status quo fails to meet the needs of Westchester County, and our diverse communities are strongly supporting my ability to deliver the impactful change we need as Westchester’s next District Attorney,” Wagstaff concluded. “I will meet the moment by using the District Attorney’s Office as a vehicle to protect victims, stand up for those in need, uplift our community, and ensure safety, accountability, and equity for Westchester.”

About William: 

William O. Wagstaff III is a respected attorney who has recently represented victims in several high-profile civil rights cases.

William’s commitment to his community is equal to his commitment to justice; he served as Special Prosecutor for Police Disciplinary Hearings, serves as Chair of the African American Men of Westchester Mentoring Committee, and is on the Board of Directors for the Legal Aid Society of Westchester.

Wagstaff’s civil rights advocacy, legal experience, and ability to effect change are earning him broad support across Westchester County for District Attorney as his campaign continues to build momentum as a frontrunner ahead of the June Democratic Primary.

Born and raised in Mount Vernon, and a lifelong Westchester resident, he is now raising two great kids with his wife Christina.

For more information visit www.wagstaffforda.com.

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