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Former Jacksonville prosecutor Harry Shorstein dies at 86
Harry Shorstein, Jacksonville’s state attorney for 17 years, has died at 86. He drew national attention for juvenile crime programs that included rehabilitation and was credited with helping stop a proposal for floating nuclear power plants on the St. Johns River.
Harry Shorstein, who served as Jacksonville’s state attorney for 17 years and once was the city’s general counsel, has died at 86. His death was reported Oct. 23, 2026; no cause of death was provided in the available information.
A Marine combat veteran, Shorstein gained national attention for efforts to address juvenile crime, including an emphasis on rehabilitation. He also was credited with helping stop a proposal to build floating nuclear power plants in the St. Johns River.
Shorstein’s career connected two consequential parts of local government: the city’s legal work and the prosecution of criminal cases. His approach to juvenile crime and his opposition to the river power-plant plan became notable parts of his public record.