Criminal Prosecution in Cherokee County
The Cherokee County Attorney's Office prosecutes adult criminal offenses on behalf of the State of Kansas in Cherokee County District Court. Our office reviews law enforcement investigations submitted by the Cherokee County Sheriff's Office, city police departments throughout the county, and the Kansas Highway Patrol, and makes independent charging decisions based on the available evidence and the applicable law.
Categories of Cases
Felony Cases
The office prosecutes felony cases ranging from drug offenses and theft to person felonies and severe violent crimes. Felony cases are filed in Cherokee County District Court and proceed through preliminary hearing, arraignment, pretrial motions, and ultimately to plea or trial.
Misdemeanor Cases
Misdemeanor offenses are also prosecuted in district court and include offenses such as battery, theft, criminal damage to property, driving under the influence, and other violations of state law.
Juvenile and Traffic Matters
Juvenile offender cases and traffic matters are handled separately. Learn more about juvenile and traffic prosecution ›
The Criminal Process
Criminal cases generally proceed through several stages: investigation, charging, first appearance, preliminary hearing (for felonies), arraignment, pretrial motions, plea negotiations or trial, and sentencing. For a plain-language walkthrough, see How a Criminal Case Works, or download the Criminal Procedure Flowchart (PDF).
Diversion as an Alternative
For certain eligible offenders, the office offers diversion as an alternative to prosecution. A successful diversion can result in dismissal of the underlying charges. Learn about diversion programs ›