Wilkinsburg District Court 05-2-10 covers the Borough of Wilkinsburg, which borders Pittsburgh to the east. When Judge Alberta Thompson retired in 2005, Kimberly Hoots (her clerk and secretary of 11 years) took over. Although Hon. Hoots lacks the prestigious background that her mentor brought to the bench, she understands Wilkinsburg in a way that allows her to balance the compassion and tenacity needed in this highly troubled area. An African-American, a Democrat, and a woman of humble upbringing, Hon. Hoots reflects the demographics and views shared by the Wilkinsburg community. The police seem to have problems with car crashes and pit bulls too.

Wilkinsburg includes three major roadways: Parkway East, Rt. 22, and Rt. 30. Despite the historical monikers \"The City of Churches\" and \"The Holy City,\" the present day reality makes Wilkinsburg closer to \"The City of Sin.\" Wilkinsburg has a very high crime rate and well-known gangs, both of which can be witnessed just by taking a casual drive through town. Several years ago Wilkinsburg even captured national attention when a schizophrenic went on a fast food killing spree that left three dead and two severely wounded. It`s not uncommon to see similar stories throughout the year on WTAE, Pittsburgh`s most-watched news station located on the outskirts of Wilkinsburg.

The Honorable Kimberly M. Hoots

Assistant DAs, State Police Department, Wilkinsburg Police Department

Traffic cases, minor non-traffic offenses, preliminary criminal proceedings