Denise O'Donnell

Denise O'Donnell has fought for justice her entire life -- and now she is ready to fight for every New Yorker. As a senior policy advisor for criminal justice issues for the Spitzer campaign, Denise O'Donnell will make sure that we continue the Spitzer tradition of strong, professional and non-political leadership in New York State government.

O'Donnell is a lifelong New Yorker who has spent her entire professional career serving the people of this state. She was born into a working family in Buffalo and was the first member of her extended family to attend college, graduating from Canisius College as a member of the first class in the formerly all male Jesuit College to graduate women.

After graduation, Denise went to work as a child protection worker in Coney Island for the New York City Department of Social Services, and later earned an MSW Degree.

After ten years in the field of social work, Denise enrolled in the University at Buffalo Law School. While raising two young children, she graduated summa cum laude from the University of Buffalo law school before becoming a front line prosecutor in 1985 as one of New York State's few women Assistant U.S. Attorneys. Serving in both Republican and Democratic administrations, she worked her way up to become Chief Appellate Attorney and First Assistant U.S. Attorney.

In 1997, upon the recommendation of Senator Daniel Patrick Moynihan, Denise was appointed U.S. Attorney for the Western District of New York by President Clinton. She became the first woman ever to serve as U.S. Attorney in upstate New York, and only the second woman ever to serve as U.S. Attorney in New York State. She earned her reputation for toughness, independence, and innovation in law enforcement. Among the highlights of her work as a professional prosecutor:

Playing a key role in the prosecution of the Oklahoma City bombing case. She worked with the FBI and numerous federal agencies to build key evidence that helped convict Timothy McVeigh, the person responsible for that heinous act of domestic terrorism.

Leading the prosecution of the man who murdered a prominent Buffalo doctor because the doctor performed abortions. With that prosecution and conviction, O'Donnell sent a strong message that she will protect a woman's right to choose against all threats.

Working closely with Attorney General Janet Reno to help identify and implement innovative new law enforcement practices for U.S. Attorneys across the country.

Taking on corrupt politicians and union bosses, taking tough stands against corporate crime, and taking very seriously the lingering racism and discrimination that deny too many of our fellow New Yorkers their full rights under the law.

Implementing innovative crime-fighting strategies like Project Exile, a successful partnership between law enforcement and the community to curb gun violence.

Throughout her career, Denise has fought hard for civil rights. She implemented the first Hate Crimes Task Force in Western New York and challenged discrimination in housing and employment. Committed to racial equality and quality education, Denise took a leave from law school and worked on the federal lawsuit to integrate the Buffalo Public Schools and to promote affirmative action in teacher hiring and promotion.

Since 2001, Denise has been a partner at the law firm of Hodgson Russ LLP, and currently practices law across New York State. She has taught trial practice to law students and lectured frequently at the Department of Justice National Advocacy Center.

Denise is married to John O'Donnell, a New York State Supreme Court Justice. They reside in Buffalo and have two children, Jack, who is active in statewide politics and government, and Maura, Erie County Assistant District Attorney.