Former Dallas County District Attorney Craig Watkins dies at 56
DALLAS - Craig Watkins, Dallas' first Black District Attorney, has died.
Watkins died at his home Tuesday morning, according to Russell Wilson, a former Watkins' DA team member. Watkins was 56 years old.
"It is with deep sorrow that the friends and family of Craig Marcus Watkins announce his passing," Wilson said in a statement. "Craig Marcus Watkins, the former District Attorney of Dallas County passed away this morning at his home in Dallas.
Watkins was elected to the position in 2006 and served as District Attorney until 2015.
While in office, Watkins pushed exonerations and his conviction integrity unit became known nationwide for its advocacy for falsely imprisoned individuals who served decades in prison for crimes they didn't commit.
Dallas County Criminal District Attorney John Creuzot released the following about Watkins' passing to CBS News Texas:
"I am saddened to learn of the passing of my former colleague Craig Watkins. Craig was bright and ambitious and for his life to end so prematurely is a tragedy, however, he leaves behind a powerful legacy.
He made history as the first elected African-American district attorney in Texas. His fierce focus on the prosecution of child abuse cases and his creation of the first Conviction Integrity Unit in the nation are testaments to his vision and ability to effect change.
Craig was perfectly human, and those who knew him are better for it. I am proud to have known him, to have worked with him, and to have been elected to the same office he held. He will be missed."
After serving as DA, Watkins opened his law firm on MLK Boulevard in South Dallas.
Wilson said funeral arrangements are pending and the Watkins family asks for their privacy at this time.