In a priority investigation, which entity should the CAC contact for civil or criminal action?

In a priority investigation, the correct course of action is to contact the district attorney, city attorney, or Circuit Prosecutor for civil or criminal action. These entities are responsible for enforcing the law and prosecuting violations that may arise from the investigation. They possess the legal authority to initiate charges and bring cases to court, allowing for appropriate legal actions to be taken against violators of environmental statutes or regulations.

The role of these attorneys is integral to the process, as they can provide legal guidance, evaluate the strength of the evidence collected during the investigation, and determine the most effective way to proceed with potential legal actions. Their involvement ensures that the actions taken align with legal protocols and that any prosecution is based on a solid foundation of evidence and legal principles.

In contrast, while the other options may serve important functions in the broader context of environmental governance and oversight, they do not have the direct role in pursuing legal actions. The US EPA and DPR focus on regulatory enforcement and compliance rather than direct prosecution. The county board of supervisors addresses local governance issues, which may include policy oversight but not legal prosecutions. CACASA's ethics committee deals with ethical standards and professional conduct within specific contexts, rather than legal matters involving criminal or civil proceedings.