Port Angeles attorney David Fox announced on Monday, March 8, that he will run for county prosecutor as a Democrat against incumbent Deborah Kelly, a Republican.

"Criminal filings are up in both District Courts and in Superior Court," he said.

"Although we have added a third Superior Court judge, the prosecutor's office and the Clallam County Public Defender's office have never been busier," Fox said in his campaign statement.

Under Kelly's leadership, the prosecutor's office has experienced a high turnover of deputy prosecutors, Fox said.

"If elected prosecuting attorney, I would hire highly qualified individuals who appear to be committed to our great county."

Fox said improved stability in the prosecutor's office would expedite the fair administration of criminal justice.

Fox has practiced family, criminal and public service law in Port Angeles for 15 years. He received his bachelor's degree in 1987 from the University of Chicago and his law degree in 1994 from the University of Idaho College of Law.

Candidates for the 2010 election must file with the county auditor's office during the first week of June.

Kelly announced Feb. 12 she will seek re-election to a third term.