The Community Prosecution and Training Bureau oversees all legal training for the Erie County District Attorney’s Office from our newest member to the most experienced prosecutor. An Assistant District Attorney begins training before their first day as a prosecutor and continues legal education throughout their career. Outside of the office, this Bureau also coordinates legal training with local law enforcement agencies and the police academy.
District Attorney Flynn established the Community Prosecution and Training Bureau to manage all legal training for the office, which Deputy District Attorney Mara L. McCabe has led since its inception. The New York State Assembly and Senate passed a comprehensive criminal justice reform package relative to issues of bail, discovery, and speedy trial that became effective January 1, 2020. Prior to her appointment as Deputy District Attorney-Training, McCabe served as Chief of this Bureau where she was responsible for implementing protocol and procedure changes within our office to comply with the newly enacted criminal justice legislation. She provided training for prosecutors and law enforcement in Erie County on bail, discovery and other reforms. She has also represented our office in statewide committees and community forums on criminal justice reform legislation.
Danielle D'Abate, Special Assistant to District Attorney/Community Prosecution, serves as the primary liaison between the DA’s Office and the residents of Erie County. Special Assistant D'Abate is responsible for attending block club meetings and other community engagement forums to answer questions and gather information on constituent concerns. The Bureau is responsible for the investigation and prosecution of crimes related to quality of life issues such as prosecuting landlords for lead paint violations.
This Bureau is also focused on creating programs to prevent crime and reduce recidivism. Special Assistant D'Abate has collaborated with law enforcement agencies and several community organizations on projects, including: the Restorative Justice Youth Pilot Program, a three-part series for eligible youth involved in the criminal justice system, and the Gun Violence Prevention Panel, an open discussion with panelists from a variety of backgrounds who share their experiences in an effort to deter young people from engaging in criminal behavior.