Monmouth law officer inspired by mother’s sacrifices and struggles

Op-ed Contributor
Camden County Assistant Prosecutor Claudia Eiden grew up in Peru until she was 16-years-old, and she was inspired by her mother’s sacrifices which afforded her the opportunity to pursue her career as a prosecutor where she can help victims of crimes.

by Donna Weaver

Camden, N.J.- Camden County Assistant Prosecutor Claudia Eiden grew up in Peru until she was 16-years-old, and she was inspired by her mother’s sacrifices which afforded her the opportunity to pursue her career as a prosecutor where she can help victims of crimes.

“I carry my Hispanic values with me every day and I strive to make a difference in people’s lives every chance I get,” Claudia said.

Claudia added that Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to reflect on the struggles and sacrifices of all Hispanic-Americans who have come before her and how those experiences shaped and contributed to what many now call their second home.


“I admire, respect, and aspire to reach the level of unwavering commitment that several generations of Hispanic-Americans have forged for someone like me.  I am proud of my heritage and I am also proud of my struggles because they have made me who I am today,” she said.


Claudia said her work as an Assistant Prosecutor with a Hispanic heritage allows her to reflect and appreciate her life experiences and the impact made every day when serving the citizens of Camden County.

“Growing up in Peru, up until the age of 16, and coming from very humble beginnings, my family always instilled in me the value of hard work at an early age.  My mother incessantly worked for me and my brother to have a better life than she had growing up,” Claudia said. Claudia and her family lived in a poor neighborhood with a high-crime rate and on multiple occasions they were victims of crimes.

“To see the sacrifice and commitment of my mother to not let any negative experience interfere with our dreams and upbringing inspired me to pursue this fulfilling career where I am able to help those who are victims of crimes,” she said.

Claudia has served as a Camden County Assistant Prosecutor for almost nine years and she has encountered hundreds of victims and witnesses who only speak and understand Spanish. Because of her fluent Spanish-speaking skills, she can actively listen to what victims and witnesses are saying, and critically read what they write without delay. Claudia said that as soon as she shares her Spanish-speaking abilities with victims and witnesses, they realize her capacity to listen to them without barriers, and their level of anxiety and stress immediately decreases and there is a willingness to share their story.

“Everyone at the CCPO strives to provide the best service and assistance to our victims.  When a victim or witness has a language barrier, our staff is always willing to help and immediately reach out to a Spanish speaking staff member that can assist,” she said.

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