Tough on crime.
Trusted by victims.
Respected in court.
Kelley Crisp proudly announces her candidacy for Bowie County District Attorney in 2026.
Kelley Gossett Crisp is a veteran prosecutor with a proven track record of fighting for justice in Bowie County. As the first woman to serve as First Assistant Criminal District Attorney, she has handled some of the toughest cases in our region—from capital murder to human trafficking—while earning respect from victims, law enforcement, and the courtroom alike.
A Record That Speaks for Itself
Crisp started at the DA’s office in 2010 and was appointed as First Assistant in 2019. Since her appointment, Crisp has been assigned as chief felony prosecutor in the 202nd District Court, where she leads prosecution on some of the most serious and violent cases in Bowie County.
With more than 135 jury trials brought to verdict, Crisp has earned a reputation for thorough case preparation, courtroom excellence and compassionate advocacy for victims. The majority of her trials have involved violent offenses such as capital murder, murder, aggravated sexual assault, human trafficking, engaging in organized criminal activity, and child sexual abuse.
Following the trial in State of Texas vs. Taylor Parker, Crisp and her team were recognized by the Texas Department of Public Safety for exemplary work in the investigation and prosecution of Parker’s cases. In 2022, a Bowie County jury convicted Parker of capital murder and sentenced her to death for committing fetal abduction and double homicide.
“Nearly every witness we prepare for trial has experienced unimaginable trauma. It’s our duty to fight for justice with integrity, compassion, and relentless preparation—because that’s what the people of Bowie County deserve.”
–Kelley Crisp, right
Committed to Victims, Families, and Law Enforcement
Her reputation as a prosecutor has earned the support of many local law enforcement officers, including endorsements from the Texarkana Police Officers Association and the Texarkana Municipal Police Association.
Crisp is actively involved in the community, including serving as president of the ArkLaTex 100 Club, which supports first responders and their families. This organization is particularly meaningful to Crisp because of her day-to-day relationship with law enforcement and first responders.
“When a police officer or firefighter dies in the line of duty, the Arklatex 100 Club responds to the family with financial assistance as quickly as possible," Crisp said. "We are fortunate to have funds left over that allow us to provide these grants for local police and fire agencies. We want officers to know, especially in today’s climate, that we appreciate what they do and there are people here that support them.”
In addition to her work with the ArkLaTex 100 Club, Crisp frequently collaborates with local schools and civic organizations to increase awareness and provide training on important issues including mandatory reporting laws, indicators of child abuse, child grooming behaviors and the dangers of online predators. She also volunteers with the Texarkana Children’s Advocacy Center in furthering their mission to prevent child abuse through community education.
Crisp is a frequent instructor at the local police academy, helping young officers learn the landscape of criminal law that will lead to successful arrests and prosecutions of criminals. Crisp has been selected by the statewide network of criminal prosecutors, the Texas District and County Attorney's Association, to take part in "Train the Trainers," an exclusive program that prepares prosecutors to provide continuing legal education for their peers.
“The opportunity to represent our citizens and law enforcement has been the honor of my life. I’ll uphold that responsibility with everything I have as District Attorney.”
–Kelley Crisp
About Kelley
Originally from Booneville, Arkansas, Kelley holds a Bachelor of Arts, Master of Arts, and Juris Doctor from the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville. She moved to Texarkana in 2007 after marrying her husband, John, and began her legal career in private civil practice before joining the DA’s office. Kelley, John, and their son are active members of First Methodist Church and proud to call Texarkana home.
Donate to the Kelley Crisp for Bowie County District Attorney Campaign
Mail checks to:
Kelley Crisp for Bowie County DA
2801 Richmond Rd. #123
Texarkana, TX 75503