District Attorney Deborah Gonzalez was elected by the people of Athens-Clarke and Oconee Counties in 2020. Her election proved historic as it made her the first female DA in her circuit, the first minority DA in her circuit, the only Latina DA in GA, and the first female Puerto Rican DA in the country. DA Gonzalez is committed to building a strong and healthy community by implementing evidence-based reform that promotes public safety. She and her team are dedicated to listening to and supporting victims of crime. She is working to end the school-to-prison pipeline.
DA Gonzalez is a former Georgia State Representative for HD-117 (Athens).
About The Team
Chief Investigator
Felicia Fortson
Felicia Fortson is one of the most experienced and respected law enforcement professionals in Northeast Georgia. She has served the people of Athens-Clarke and Oconee Counties in the DA’s office for more than 20 years.
Director, Victim Services
Tanya Wingfield
Tanya Wingfield has worked with and advocated for victims of crime in Athens-Clarke and Oconee Counties – especially women and children – for over eight years. She joined the DA’s office from ally community organization Project Safe. Tanya leads a team of advocates who are ready to help victims of crime in one of the most challenging times of their lives.
Director, External Relations
Dawn Brinkley
Dawn Brinkley was a psychology lecturer for over six years at the University of Texas at Dallas, where she graduated with her Ph.D. in psychological sciences. Her research focused on adolescent development and positive parenting in minority families. Her passion for translating research into practice led her to join the DA’s office, where she is committed to serving the people of Athens-Clarke and Oconee Counties.