Karres Manning-Center has announced her bid for prosecuting attorney of the 11th West Judicial Circuit, which covers Jefferson and Lincoln counties.
Manning-Center is presently deputy prosecutor under Kyle Hunter, who has announced he would not run for reelection. Hunter’s fourth and final term ends Dec. 31, 2026.
“As a deputy prosecutor for the past 25 years I have fought aggressively for victims of crime to make sure they were given a voice and heard,” Manning-Center said in an announcement last week that included supporters from both counties. “I have strived to ensure that all people are treated fairly by the criminal justice system. I believe there is still important work to be done. We must address the rise in domestic violence and gun violence. We must address the inequalities that still exist in the criminal justice system. That is why I’m seeking the position of elected prosecutor so that I can focus on these issues and implement policies that will address these issues.”
Manning-Center said her vision for safer Jefferson and Lincoln counties will involve “community-focused justice.” She pledges the public policies of the office will be fair and transparent in order to gain the trust and cooperation of the community.
“I believe the prosecutor’s office should be proactive in preventing crime also,” Manning-Center said. “As your elected prosecutor, your safety will be my top priority. I pledge that this office will work with law enforcement to strengthen criminal investigations of violent crimes with training and technology so that we can hold offenders accountable.”
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
Manning-Center touts a track record that she says has delivered results, along with her 25 years of problem solving and tackling tough issues, which she says gives her the needed experience, knowledge and compassion to step into the role of elected prosecutor and serve from Day 1.
Manning-Center is a member of Mount Nebo Church and actively involved on the Child Advocacy Team, the Jefferson County Bar and member of the Association for Prosecuting Attorneys. She also is a member of the Pine Bluff Branch of the NAACP, the Pine Bluff Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. and The Links Inc., Pine Bluff chapter.
She is married to Johnny Center with two children.
The nonpartisan filing period for the March 3, 2026, election for prosecuting attorney begins Nov. 3 and ends Nov. 11.