Louisville attorney Karen Faulkner is questioning the policies of current Jefferson County attorney, Mike O’Connell. Faulkner criticized O’Connell during a debate on Friday hosted by the Louisville Bar Association. The two are opponents in the May primary.Faulkner said O’Connell has displayed unethical behavior, making him unfit to serve the people of Jefferson County.“It is the county attorney’s job to represent the Metro Council members. That comes with a duty, he broke that duty,” she said. “He did not represent Councilman James, instead he broke the confidentiality and tried to throw his client under the bus. That is unethical.”
Earlier this month, O’Connell issued an opinion that Councilman David James should not cast council votes because he has taken a conflicting oath to serve as a police officer for the University of Louisville.O’Connell said Faulkner’s lack of prosecutorial experience makes her unfit for the job of county attorney.“I think the contrast between me and Ms. Faulkner is pretty clear in connection with this office,” O’Connell said. “Jefferson County deserves an experienced attorney to be county attorney. This office is too big and too important to be in the hands of someone who lacks the necessary skill and experience to move forward.”Faulkner would become the first elected female county attorney in Jefferson County if she wins the post. O’Connell has held the office since 2008.
