(Guthrie Co.) Charles Abel announced his candidacy for Guthrie County Attorney, pledging a strong commitment to the people of Guthrie County and to upholding the law with integrity, fairness, and determination.
“As your County Attorney, my responsibility will be to ensure justice is served and that our communities remain safe places to live, work, and raise families,” Abel said. “I’m a firm believer in that nothing replaces good, old-fashioned hard work. When you roll up your sleeves and give every case the time and dedication it deserves, you get results that matter for the community and the people you protect and serve.”
A lifelong Iowan, Abel emphasized a deep respect for law enforcement and the importance of collaboration between the County Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement agencies. “I stand firmly with the men and women who wear the badge,” Abel added. “Supporting our law enforcement officers is not only the right thing to do – it’s essential to keeping Guthrie County safe. Strong working relationships with our local law enforcement agencies are essential to maximizing impact, achieving justice, and protecting our community. When we work hand-in-hand, we not only strengthen public safety, but we also ensure that the resources being used are more effective and economical in serving taxpayers.”
As part of the campaign, Abel outlined several priority areas:
• Combating Meth and Protecting Children – Making meth-related crimes and their devastating impact on families and communities a top priority. Abel, who serves on the legislative committee of the Iowa County Attorneys Association, has already drafted and proposed legislation that would expand protections for children facing meth exposure in the home, and added protections from the dangers posed by sex offenders.
• Partnership with Law Enforcement – Continuing to build strong, cooperative relationships with local law enforcement, maximizing effectiveness while ensuring justice is served efficiently and fairly.
• Public Awareness and Transparency – Expanding public awareness of the role of the County Attorney’s Office by sharing timely information about ongoing threats, such as the latest scams and evolving criminal trends, so residents can take steps to safeguard themselves and their families.
• Protecting Seniors – Implementing policies and a focused approach on prosecuting and protecting elder abuse and financial exploitation of the elderly, ensuring some of our most vulnerable citizens are protected.
Abel currently serves as the Assistant Guthrie County Attorney where he has served the residents of Guthrie County since November of 2023. In addition, Abel’s past experiences include establishing and running a successful law practice for several years and practicing law in the private sector in both the civil and criminal law arenas. Abel received his bachelor’s degree with majors in Sociology, Criminology and Criminal Justice from Iowa State University. Abel then received his J.D. from Southern Illinois University School of Law where he was selected for membership in The Order of Barristers which is limited to graduating law students who demonstrate exceptional advocacy and writing stills.
“As County Attorney, I will bring energy, persistence, and a commitment to serving the people of Guthrie County with honestly and hard work,” Abel concluded. “It would be my honor to earn the trust of our community and to serve as your next Guthrie County Attorney.”
