Atlantic County Prosecutor Declares 'War' on Local Government

Prosecutor Will Reynolds' public feuds with officials have become costly for taxpayers.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 9:33am

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A dynamic, fragmented painting depicting the symbols of law and government - a gavel, scales of justice, and a cityscape - in overlapping geometric shapes and waves of dark blue, grey, and red, conveying a sense of chaos and conflict.The public feud between the Atlantic County Prosecutor and local officials has become an expensive political battle that distracts from their shared mission of public safety.Atlantic City Today

Atlantic County Prosecutor Will Reynolds has amassed a successful track record in prosecuting violent crimes, but his recent public feuds with local officials like Atlantic City Mayor Marty Small and Atlantic County Executive Dennis Levinson have become increasingly contentious, with Reynolds now declaring he is 'at war' with the county government he serves.

Why it matters

The public battles between the prosecutor's office and local government have raised concerns about the effectiveness of law enforcement collaboration and the appropriate role of the county's top prosecutor, especially as Reynolds' losses in recent political battles seem to have fueled his combative approach.

The details

Reynolds has demonstrated an impressive record in addressing gun violence, gangs, drug crimes, and crimes against children, contributing to a lack of murders in Atlantic County so far in 2026. However, his recent public clashes with Atlantic City officials like Mayor Marty Small and Councilwomen La'Quetta Small and Constance Days-Chapman, as well as his ongoing dispute with Atlantic County Executive Dennis Levinson, have become increasingly unproductive and expensive for taxpayers.

  • So far in 2026, there have been no murders in Atlantic County.
  • Reynolds has recently lost political battles against Atlantic City officials like Mayor Marty Small.

The players

Will Reynolds

The Atlantic County Prosecutor who has amassed a successful track record in prosecuting violent crimes but has also engaged in public feuds with local officials.

Vince Polistina

A New Jersey state senator who has commented on the issues between Reynolds and the Atlantic County government.

Dennis Levinson

The Atlantic County Executive who has been in a public dispute with Prosecutor Reynolds.

Marty Small

The Mayor of Atlantic City who has been involved in a political battle with Prosecutor Reynolds.

La'Quetta Small

An Atlantic City Councilwoman who has been involved in a political battle with Prosecutor Reynolds.

Constance Days-Chapman

An Atlantic City Councilwoman who has been involved in a political battle with Prosecutor Reynolds.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.