Paul F. Tucker, a Democrat and the incumbent Essex County district attorney, is seeking reelection in the Nov. 3, 2026, election. The office serves Essex County, including Andover and North Andover.
Background
Tucker was elected district attorney in 2022 after serving in the Massachusetts House, according to his official biography. He previously worked for the Salem Police Department, becoming chief in 2009.
The biography lists a criminal-justice degree from Salem State University, a master’s degree from Anna Maria College and a law degree from Massachusetts School of Law.
Prosecution and alternatives
Tucker’s office describes its approach as combining prosecution with victim services, diversion, rehabilitation, restorative justice and youth engagement.
These are descriptions of the office’s work. The biography reviewed does not provide a separate 2026 expansion proposal, implementation timetable, funding request or projected results.
Local effects and authority
A district attorney directs prosecutions and can establish office priorities and diversion practices within the law. Courts decide sentences, and changes to criminal statutes or appropriations require other government action.
For county residents, the office’s decisions can affect how cases are prosecuted and how victims and eligible diversion participants receive assistance. The verified materials do not establish new eligibility rules or guaranteed outcomes for individual cases.
The Andover Ledger did not receive a direct questionnaire response from the candidate and does not endorse candidates.
