By Ray Veary
Ray Veary lives in New Bedford.
October 21, 2010  

I am a friend and past co-worker of Chris Markey. He's the Democratic candidate for state representative in the 9th Bristol District, comprised of the entire town of Dartmouth as well as sections of New Bedford, Freetown and Lakeville. Lately, I have heard several questions raised about whether Chris has the leadership experience required for the office. Let me tell you, from my point of view, Chris Markey has proven himself a leader again and again.

My opinion is based upon firsthand experience gained from the years Chris and I worked together at the Bristol District Attorney's Office. Chris started in the office as a victim-witness advocate, helping the sufferers of crime to enforce their rights and navigate through the criminal justice system.

While doing this, he was also attending law school. Upon his graduation and admission to the bar, Chris was offered a position as an assistant district attorney. His intelligence, work ethic and leadership skills were quickly recognized, and he soon was invited to become a supervisor. While many young prosecutors gain their couple of years of trial experience and move on to other endeavors, Chris followed his passion for public service. He continued with our office and gamely assumed this greater responsibility.

It didn't take long for Chris Markey's talents to again be recognized in the form of an appointment to what is very likely the toughest position in the office, that of the chief district court prosecutor. The bane of our court system is its crush of cases, and nowhere is that more evident than in our district courts. Nearly every case prosecuted by the district attorney begins in a district court, and, in his new position, Chris had to maintain that front line at four different courthouses.

He met this challenge ably and did so while supervising four separate staffs of the office's eager but least experienced prosecutors. Chris was outstanding in the job, proving his mettle as a patient but firm manager and a nurturer of young talent.

However, Chris made his mark upon more than just those new to the office. We veteran prosecutors had our opportunity to experience his leadership as he was again promoted, this time to the position of second assistant district attorney. Here, Chris took over responsibility for many of the day-to-day operations throughout the office and throughout the county.

And the rest of us soon learned by direct encounter just how talented a leader Chris Markey was. We saw it in times of both calm and challenge. His vision was clear and intelligent. His opinions were honest, and his judgments were fair. His counsel was valued. He cared earnestly about his responsibilities, and he demonstrated that care each day.

His example inspired others. It was an honor to serve with him. Chris Markey earned our respect the old fashion way: He earned it.