ORLANDO, Fla. – Tuesday was a pivotal moment for Orange and Osceola counties as State Attorney Monique H. Worrell marked her rightful return to office as chief prosecutor for the Ninth Judicial Circuit.

Florida Representative LaVon Bracy Davis administered the oath of office as State Attorney Worrell was surrounded by dozens of community members, lawmakers, assistant state attorneys, family and friends. It was more than a formal oath—it was a reaffirmation of the will of the people.

State Attorney Worrell was unjustly removed from office 18 months ago, a decision that disregarded the voices of thousands of voters who had chosen her to lead. Despite relentless political attacks, false media narratives and personal losses, she remained resolute. On Nov. 5, 2024, more than 414,000 voters sent a clear message by returning State Attorney Worrell to office.

“Our community spoke with clarity and conviction on Nov. 5,” State Attorney Worrell said. “And today was about more than reclaiming a position—it was about reclaiming our democracy. It represents a renewal of trust, commitment and the promise that justice is not simply about punishment but about prevention, rehabilitation and creating opportunities for positive change.”

State Attorney Worrell pledged to lead the office with integrity, fairness and a commitment to justice for all. Under her leadership, the office will prioritize making neighborhoods safer by holding offenders accountable, protecting the vulnerable and respecting the constitutional rights of every person.

She emphasized that true public safety is about accountability and opportunity, ensuring that individuals have the tools to turn their lives around and succeed. State Attorney Worrell also highlighted the profound responsibility of prosecutors to act as guardians of justice, making decisions based on fairness, evidence and a commitment to the public good.

“Our duty goes beyond punishment. It is about building a justice system that people can believe in— one that supports victims, holds offenders accountable and restores trust between the system and the community,” she said.

In the coming weeks, State Attorney Worrell will focus on assessing the current state of the office, bringing back evidence-based initiatives from her first administration that were working well and proactively strengthening relationships with law enforcement and the community.

Key Priorities:

• Reevaluating Diversion Programs: A thorough review will ensure all alternatives to prosecution programs are effective, evidence-based and aligned with the office’s mission.

• Empowering Youth: The Your Future, Your Choice juvenile crime prevention program will be relaunched to educate and empower young people about their rights, responsibilities and the consequences of their actions.

• Strengthening Community Partnerships: Collaboration with law enforcement, community organizations and advocates will be central to addressing violent crime and building trust across every corner of the Ninth Judicial Circuit.