Dallas – Craig Watkins, Dallas' first black district attorney, has died.
Russell Wilson, a former member of Watkins' prosecutorial team, said Watkins died Tuesday morning at his home. Watkins was 56 years old.
“It is with deep sadness that the friends and family of Craig Marcus Watkins announce his death,” Wilson said in a statement. “Former Dallas County District Attorney Craig Marcus Watkins passed away this morning at his home in Dallas.
Mr. Watkins was elected district attorney in 2006 and served as district attorney until 2015.
During his tenure, Mr. Watkins maintained his innocence and his Conviction Integrity Unit became nationally known for its work defending wrongfully imprisoned people who served decades in prison for crimes they did not commit.
Dallas County Criminal District Attorney John Clouzot announced the following about Watkins' death to CBS News Texas:
“I am saddened to learn of the passing of my former colleague Craig Watkins. Craig was a bright and ambitious man and it is a tragedy that his life ended so soon, but he left behind a powerful legacy.
He made history as the first African-American district attorney in Texas. His dedication to prosecuting child abuse cases and the establishment of the nation's first Conviction Integrity Unit are evidence of his vision and his ability to bring about change.
Craig was fully human, and those who knew him are better for it. I am proud to have known him, worked with him, and been elected to the same office he held. He will be missed. ”
After working as a prosecutor, Watkins opened a law firm on MLK Boulevard in south Dallas.
Wilson said funeral arrangements are pending and the Watkins family asks that their privacy be respected at this time.
