Alvarez defends her actions, promises cooperation

Though Cook County State’s Attorney Anita Alvarez said she won’t appeal a judge’s ruling Friday to appoint an outside prosecutor to re-examine the David Koschman case, she defended her handling of the case – and her failed effort against bringing in a special prosecutor.

“I think the citizens of Cook County would agree that it would have been inappropriate for me to run away from my responsibilities because I found myself under attack – an unjust attack – by reporters who have tried to advocate and influence the decision without regards to the law,” said Alvarez, who has been critical of Chicago Sun-Times reporting on the case.

“I will not be bullied into any decision on any case that is not supported by the law and admissible evidence.”

Alvarez pledged her “complete cooperation” whenever a special prosecutor is named.

Chris Fusco, Tim Novak