CIRCUIT ATTORNEY JENNIFER M. JOYCE CITY OF ST. LOUIS cmcurt arroenews omnice July 2, 2015 Dear City of St. Louis Residents: It is with both a heavy heart and sincere optimism for the future that | share with you my decision not to seek re- election upon completion of my current term as Circuit Attorney in 2016. This has been a very difficult decision for my family and me. Jove this job. ilove St. Louis. | was born in the city, educated in the city and | live in the city. ve given the majority of my adult life to protecting victims, seeking justice and working to make my hometown a better place for all. Ihave put my heart and soul into doing what | thought best for my community. Ithas been a privilege serving you as a prosecutor for the past 21 years. | am so proud of the Circuit Attorney's Office and | have been honored ta lead a team of exceptionally dedicated public servants. | am confident this team will continue to fight for citizens and crime victims in the City of St. Lous. My husband and I have been discussing the next phase of our lives for some time now. Both of my parents died at the young age of 57 years old. Though | try to take good care of myself, this fact weighs upon me, am married toa wonderful, adventurous man. We have children all over the country. We want to visit with them and see our grandchildren. We also love the outdoors, After much discussion, we have decided to spend some time cruising the open road in our RV and appreciating every moment life has to offer. | am grateful for the opportunity to do so. understand that some people are not afforded this same option. in fact, hundreds of people in our city will never get to see their future. | know this all too well. We have an unacceptable and alarming level of gun violence in this, city. Too many people are dying, twill take some very bold and innovative initiatives to redirect the current tide, which is why 'm announcing my decision now. This allows me the freedom to speak my mind and take resolute action in a way that a candidate in a political race cannot. Raising money and managing a political campaign takes a ton of work and personal time. Every ‘ounce of my energy and resources needs to be spent on an aggressive and collaborative approach to reducing violent crime. Ihave 18 more months remaining in my term. | am committed to spending every waking moment and every ounce of energy working to save lives, reduce the violence and help foster peace in our community. | believe we can do it. | believe it’s worth the fight. | believe in this office, this city and its residents. | invite you to join me as | continue to work and serve in this great city. Sincerely, J inifevi Joyce Circuit Attorney