Montgomery County DA Holley sets priorities

MONTGOMERY COUNTY, TX – Montgomery County is poised for a significant shift in its legal landscape as Mike Holley officially steps into his role as District Attorney on January 1, 2025. Elected by voters on November 5, 2024, Holley brings a quarter-century of prosecutorial experience within the county, pledging a proactive approach to critical issues facing the community.

Holley’s career has been deeply rooted in Montgomery County’s justice system. For 24 years, he served as a dedicated prosecutor, distinguishing himself particularly during his 17 years as Chief Prosecutor in the Child Abuse Division. During this extensive tenure, Holley earned a reputation as a steadfast advocate for vulnerable populations, successfully prosecuting numerous complex cases involving child abuse and neglect. This work provided him with an intimate understanding of the systemic challenges and the human impact of the county’s legal processes. A graduate of the University of Texas School of Law, Holley earned his undergraduate degree in Criminal Justice from Sam Houston State University, solidifying his deep roots in Texas’s legal community.

His campaign centered on addressing what he identified as pressing needs within the justice system, starting with the significant backlog of cases, particularly felonies. “My commitment from day one is to restore efficiency and trust in our justice system,” Holley stated during his campaign. “That means relentlessly chipping away at the case backlog so victims can find closure and defendants can have their day in court without undue delay.” The incoming DA plans a multi-pronged approach, including the immediate hiring of new, experienced prosecutors specifically to tackle these older cases, which have contributed to prolonged justice for many.

Beyond the courtroom, Holley has pledged to take a firm stance against organized retail theft, a growing concern for businesses and consumers across Montgomery County. He emphasized increased collaboration with local law enforcement agencies to identify and dismantle these networks, protecting local economies and ensuring community safety.

Another critical priority for the incoming DA is the escalating Fentanyl crisis, which continues to claim lives and devastate families within the community. Holley’s strategy involves aggressively prosecuting fentanyl traffickers while also exploring partnerships with public health initiatives to address the crisis holistically, focusing on both enforcement and prevention.

Supporting law enforcement and streamlining the justice process to prevent unnecessary delays are also high on his agenda. Holley aims to foster stronger relationships with police and sheriff departments, ensuring resources are effectively utilized and procedural bottlenecks are minimized. “I believe deeply in the pursuit of justice, and I saw a clear opportunity to improve how we serve the people of Montgomery County,” Holley remarked. “It’s about accountability, efficiency, and ensuring our community feels safe and supported by its legal system.”

Holley’s decision to seek the District Attorney position was motivated by a perceived need for significant improvements within the justice system, noting difficulties victims and law enforcement often faced under the previous administration. He succeeds Emily Hayes, who served two terms as Montgomery County’s top prosecutor.

While Holley plans to retain the majority of the existing staff, he has clearly indicated his intention to inject fresh expertise into the office. “We have dedicated professionals here, and I value their commitment,” Holley noted. “However, addressing our challenges, especially the backlog, will require additional experienced hands on deck. We need prosecutors who can hit the ground running.” He also stressed the importance of building a team that is not only highly skilled but also deeply committed to the values of justice and community safety.

Securing the necessary resources will be a joint effort with the Montgomery County Commissioners Court. Holley has already initiated discussions to ensure his office is adequately funded and equipped to implement his ambitious agenda, from technology upgrades to staffing levels, ensuring the justice system can effectively serve communities from Conroe to The Woodlands.

Holley’s official swearing-in ceremony is expected in early January 2025 at the Montgomery County Courthouse, marking the beginning of his four-year term.