New district attorney, youngest in the state, plans to nurture circuit-wide Major Crimes Unit

At just 29 years old, Rachael England was appointed by Gov. Kay Ivey in January as District Attorney for Alabama’s 17th Judicial Circuit, covering Marengo, Sumter and Greene counties. 

England now holds the distinction of being the youngest DA in the state and the youngest woman ever to serve in the role. 

“This is my hometown,” England said, gesturing toward the historic bank building in Demopolis that houses her office. “I grew up here. I went to public school here and never left.” 

England’s legal path began early, mentored for over a decade by former DA Greg Griggers, who is now a circuit court judge. She worked alongside him throughout her time at The University of Alabama, where she earned both her undergraduate and law degrees. That continuity has helped ease the transition, though England admits the shift from assistant to lead prosecutor comes with new challenges. 

One of her first priorities has been addressing the cases Griggers handled as DA that he now cannot preside over as judge. England is working swiftly to resolve these older cases, which span three counties and require coordination with multiple judges. 

But her most ambitious initiative is the launch of a circuit-wide Major Crimes Unit set to debut next month. The unit will bring together officers from every law enforcement agency across the circuit to respond collectively to serious crimes like shootings and homicides. 

“This gives us an opportunity to fundraise for equipment, provide training and increase manpower,” England said. “The State Bureau of Investigation has committed to helping with crime scene processing and interviewing.” 

The need is urgent. While the region remains relatively low in violent crime compared to urban centers, England noted a troubling rise in gang-related shootings and drive-by incidents, including the tragic killing of a 19-year-old bystander in Demopolis. 

“We’re seeing more cases involving shooting into homes and cars, even with children nearby,” she said. “The Major Crimes Unit will help us respond faster and build stronger cases.” 

England also emphasized the DA’s office is more than a prosecutorial body. It supports diversion programs like drug court, veterans court and mental health court, aiming to rehabilitate rather than incarcerate when possible. The office also continues its work with the drug task force, intercepting narcotics along interstate corridors. 

As she settles into her role, England remains focused on clearing the COVID-era backlog of capital murder cases and preparing for new dockets under Judge Griggers. She’s also calling on the community to support the Major Crimes Unit, noting that even basic equipment like portable interview cameras is still needed. 

“I’m grateful for the opportunity to come back home and serve,” she said. “Greene, Marengo and Sumter counties are my home, and I’ll work every day to protect and serve them.” 

Community members interested in information or supporting the Major Crimes Unit can contact the DA’s office at 334-289-2149.