Samantha began her career in private practice before joining our office in August of 2023. Samantha graduated from the University of Missouri – Columbia School of Law in 2021.

When not working, Samantha enjoys reading and spending time with her family and dogs.

Sarah joined our office in December 2023. She brings eight years of experience handling complex criminal cases. She began her legal career in 2015 as an Assistant Public Defender in the Farmington office. By 2021, she was the District Defender of that office. Eager to shift her legal career to prosecution, Sarah joined our office to zealously advocate for victims of crimes.

Sarah is a 2015 graduate of University of Missouri – Kansas City School of Law.

When not working, Sarah enjoys creating memories with her family and scrapbooking.

Maria Manikatos graduated from California Western School of Law in San Diego, California in 2005.  Maria has previously worked in Public Accounting and as a Property Manager.  She also clerked in a civil law firm in Los Angeles.  Maria was born and raised in Farmington, MO and decided to return home. 

Blake Stevens joined our office in 2026. A longtime member of the St. Francois County community, Blake previously worked in private practice before dedicating eight years to local education, including three years serving as a Principal and Assistant Principal in area schools. He is a 2016 graduate of the University of Mississippi School of Law.

Blake was drawn to the Prosecuting Attorney’s Office by his strong belief in its mission and his sincere desire to protect and serve the community he has always been a part of. His experience working with local families and young people gives him a grounded perspective on the challenges facing our area.

When not working, Blake enjoys weight training, golf, family activities, and anything related to Ole Miss.

Lake began with the Assistant Prosecutor’s Office in August of 2025. She handles the Paternity and Civil Contempt cases within our 4 counties (St. Francois, Ste. Genevieve, Madison and Washington).

Brittany began with the prosecutor’s office in July 2011. Brittany handles many administrative duties in the office in addition to assisting with training and managing other legal secretaries. Brittany is also one of our MULES operators.

Rachael began with our office in September 2019. She serves as our VOCA victim advocate and covers our high felony , most dangerous crimes which include, Assault 1 and 2, Murder, Voluntary Manslaughter, Sex crimes of adult and children, Domestic Assaults, Elder Abuse and Violation of an Order of Protection, just to name a few.

Rachael has 20 years’ experience in customer service and 5 years’ experience in grassroots marketing and community networking. 5 years in training and mentoring employees in the service industry.

Rachael has a passion to work alongside Prosecutor’s in finding justice for victims, finding resources when needed and helping victims to navigate through the criminal justice process.

Rachael also has a deep admiration for veterans and the military as the spouse of a United States Marine.

She enjoys spending time with her family and traveling when she is able.