I have had the honor of serving victims, their families, and the People of the State of California as a Deputy District Attorney for over 33 years. I am dedicated to fair and equal justice through my commitment to public safety, victims’ rights, and the rule of law. As a prosecutor, I have dedicated my life to fighting for justice for all members of our community. I have been entrusted with and successfully prosecuted some of the most horrific murder and rape cases committed in the county, to name just a few: People v. Scott Erskine, who in 1993, sexually assaulted and murdered 9-year-old Jonathan Seller and 13-year-old Charlie Keever. People v. Jesse Gomez, who in 2016 opened fire on two San Diego Police officers on patrol, killing Officer Jonathan DeGuzman and seriously injuring his partner. People v. John Frediani, who murdered a woman he had sexually assaulted more than a year before in Northern California, for the purpose of eliminating her as a witness against him. People v. Kevin Ford, who raped and murdered a 79-year-old woman who he had been hired to transport to a medical appointment. I am now running for Superior Court Judge to continue my commitment to fair and equal justice while keeping our communities safe.
About Valerie Summers
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
I am blessed with one son who has grown up to be an intelligent, kind, and generous man.
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
In my many years in the District Attorney’s Office I not only prosecuted the worst offenders, I oversaw the most serious and violent cases where the most vulnerable of our community have been harmed. I was Chief of the Family Protection Division (2013-2016.) The Family Protection Division was one of the largest divisions in the office, prosecuting domestic violence and domestic homicides; child stealing, child abuse, and child homicides; and elder abuse and elder homicide. I was Chief of the Sex Crimes and Human Trafficking Division (2011-2013). The Sex Crimes Division sought justice for victims of sexual assault, stalking, and human trafficking. I was the Assistant Chief of the Gang Prosecution Unit (2007-2011) which addressed murder and other violent crimes committed by gang members. I have also taught criminal justice-related courses at the University of California San Diego and California State University San Marcos for over 20 years. Fighting for justice for members of our community who have been harmed by crime has been very rewarding. Crime is devastating to the victims, their families, their friends, and our community as a whole.
Q: What advice would you give to people?
Do something that helps other people, you will find this to be the greatest reward.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
Continuing to serve my fellow San Diegans by making our communities safe and our justice system fair.
Valerie Summers & Our Community
Q: What are a few of your favorite restaurants in our community?
Temaki Bar Sushi in Encinitas is a great place to meet friends for lunch, dinner, or just a snack. The atmosphere is modern and lively and the service is excellent. The Bar Leucadian has a food truck called Smoke and Salt on the patio serving the best smoked chicken in San Diego!
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
I’m a long-time Aztec! Graduating from SDSU in 1983.
Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
The zoo always makes me think of childhood.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
My favorite thing about our community is the laid-back outdoor lifestyle. Whether it is outdoor dining or a day at dog beach the atmosphere is fun and relaxed.
Q: If you could choose anyone alive today and not a relative, with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would you meet for this lunch?
Serena Williams because I am such a fan! She is such a role model. I was inspired every time I saw her play or learned about her life. She is a true example of a strong work ethic and resilience. I think she would enjoy going to Pacific Coast Grill for the perfect lunch with a perfect view!
For Fun
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
I loved Ted Lasso! All the characters were so well done. I wish it didn’t have to end!
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
That’s tough to say because I am an open book! Maybe I would love to learn to fly a helicopter.
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
Del Mar Dog Beach. It is a true joy for everyone.
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
My son. For him, I want to work harder, live healthier, be stronger, be kinder, and have a positive impact on my community. I want to be someone he is always proud of.
Q: What community organizations and/or local nonprofits do you admire/support?
I am a strong supporter of Helen Woodward and the humane society.
Q: What Neighborhood do you live in?
Encinitas
What I love about my Neighborhood:
Encinitas beaches are great and the downtown neighborhood is very walkable.
Please describe your ideal San Diego weekend:
The ideal San Diego weekend would certainly include a hike with my son or friends – maybe Annie’s Canyon; a long afternoon at Dog Beach; and a great meal at one of our many outdoor dining spots!
Q: Finally, what three words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Family, love, peace.
