U.S. Attorney Dena J. King Joins Panel Discussion On “Diversifying The Criminal Justice Landscape ” At Johnson C. Smith University

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Today, U.S. Attorney Dena J. King joined professionals in the criminal justice field for a panel discussion at Johnson C. Smith University (JCSU) on the topic of “Diversifying the Criminal Justice Landscape.”

The event was organized by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), in collaboration with JCSU’s Criminology Program and the College of Arts, as part of ATF’s “Law Enforcement Leaders of America,” or LELA initiative, which aims to advance diversity in the criminal justice profession.

U.S. Attorney King has supported the LELA initiative from its inception and has participated on multiple LELA events held on college campuses of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in North Carolina, including at Livingstone College, Winston Salem State University, and at North Carolina Central University, U.S. Attorney King’s alma mater.

“I am pleased and honored to be a part of this important initiative, centered on promoting diversity in the criminal justice field. These events are a remarkable opportunity to engage directly with undergraduate students and spark their interest in careers they may not have explored up to this point,” said U.S. Attorney King. “Looking back to when I was in college, there were limited opportunities for minority students to be exposed to and learn about professional opportunities in this field. I am excited be a part of the LELA program and I am looking forward to participating in future events.”

U.S. Attorney King was joined in this panel discussion by criminal justice professionals representing federal, state and local government agencies, who shared valuable perspectives on career paths, job preparation, obstacles, and lessons learned. College students who attended the event also received information on a broad range of topics related to career options, internship opportunities, and practical tips, such as preparing for a job interview. Following the panel discussion, students had an opportunity to ask questions and network with the panelists.