Will D.A. Patsy Austin-Gatson Convince The Community To Re-Elect Her?

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Patsy Austin-Gatson’s journey to becoming the Gwinnett County District Attorney is a story of resilience, faith, and determination. Raised in the projects of New York by a single mother, Austin-Gatson learned early on the power of fighting for what she wanted. Her mother’s hard work and dedication instilled in her the belief that anything is possible with perseverance.

Despite never imagining herself in the role of a lawyer, let alone a district attorney, Austin-Gatson’s support system of family, mentors, and friends propelled her to achieve what once seemed unattainable. After graduating from Emory University School of Law, she worked for then Attorney General Michael Bowers, prosecuting challenging cases and delivering justice across Georgia.

Austin-Gatson’s move to Gwinnett County with her husband, Travis, marked a new chapter in their lives, where they raised their three children. She balanced being a small business owner and practicing law privately before taking a supervising attorney position with the Solicitor General’s office of Gwinnett County.

In 2020, driven by a desire to challenge the status quo, Austin-Gatson ran for Gwinnett District Attorney. Her historic victory made her the first African American and first woman to hold the position in Gwinnett’s history, defeating a 28-year incumbent.

During her tenure, Austin-Gatson has transformed the Office of District Attorney, hiring a diverse and talented team of over 70% new staff, including assistant district attorneys, victim witness advocates, investigators, and legal assistants. She has remained committed to protecting the youth of Gwinnett County from drugs, with her office being the first in the state to charge drug dealers with murder for selling drugs laced with fentanyl.

Austin-Gatson has introduced several initiatives, such as the RED program and the RIZER program, aimed at reducing recidivism and providing second chances for young offenders. She has also established a cold case unit, a conviction integrity unit, and expanded the Special Victims and Gang Task Force Unit, adding more investigators and victim witness advocates from the community.

As she seeks re-election in 2024, Austin-Gatson is determined to continue being a voice for the people of Gwinnett County, focusing on protecting the youth from drugs and guns, and building the next generation of leaders.

Patsy Austin-Gatson’s story is a testament to the power of faith, hard work, and the belief in the possibility of change. Her dedication to justice and the well-being of her community serves as an inspiration to all who aspire to make a difference in the world.