Ex-Manhattan prosecutor Diana Florence seeks to topple DA Bragg

Diana Florence, a former prosecutor in the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office, has announced her candidacy to challenge current DA Alvin Bragg on an independent “Safer Manhattan” ballot line. Florence is running against Bragg, who gained attention for his controversial “Day One memo” instructing prosecutors to stop seeking prison sentences for certain crimes and downgrade felony charges.

Florence criticized Bragg’s memo, stating that the law should be followed without exceptions. She emphasized the need to bring common sense back to the District Attorney’s office and prioritize justice over politics. However, Florence faced her own controversies when she resigned from the DA’s office in 2020 amid allegations of withholding evidence in key cases.

Despite the challenges, Florence is determined to focus on restoring order and fairness in Manhattan. She pledged to address quality-of-life crimes like shoplifting and vandalism, as well as prosecute domestic violence and sex crimes vigorously. Florence also promised to tackle hate-related crimes, including antisemitism and anti-Asian sentiments.

While Bragg faces a primary challenge from former Bronx prosecutor Patrick Timmins, Florence aims to offer a different approach to criminal justice in Manhattan. She highlighted her 25 years of experience as a prosecutor, focusing on street crime, domestic violence, fraud, and corruption cases. Florence has a track record of winning convictions against individuals and companies involved in various criminal activities.

Born and raised in Manhattan, Florence currently resides in Kips Bay with her husband and two children. Despite the criticism from Bragg’s campaign, Florence received a qualified rating from the New York Bar Association during the 2021 race. She is determined to bring justice to every community in Manhattan and make the city safer for all residents.