Local

Patterson to take over as interim DA

Brian Patterson says he is ready to become interim District Attorney for the judicial circuit that includes Clarke and Oconee counties. It's a role he will assume on March 1. Patterson has been deputy DA under Ken Mauldin, the District Attorney who announced last year that he would not be a candidate for reelection this year. Mauldin told us last month he would resign effective at the end of this month. 

Mauldin's announcement throws a decision on when the next election for the DA's office will be held. If he waits until after May 3 to name a replacement, the election had been scheduled for this year will pushed to 2022. Patterson and former Athens state Representative Deborah Gonzalez have both announced for the DA's seat and are, for now, scheduled to meet in a primary that will be held in May.

From Ryan Patterson…

“I chose to run for District Attorney because I love our community, and I am committed to keeping it safe, while safeguarding the individual rights and liberties of all persons. I value the democratic process and welcome the opportunity to make the case to voters that I am the right choice for District Attorney because of my extensive, lengthy experience as a real prosecutor. I believe that I have the proven experience, leadership, and commitment to be the next District Attorney for the Western Judicial Circuit. I am especially proud that right here in Athens-Clarke and Oconee counties, we have successfully implemented pioneering criminal justice reform that serves as a model for the rest of the state while making our community’s safety our top priority. While I was surprised by Ken Mauldin’s decision to retire at the end of this month, I look forward to showing voters how I will lead by serving Athens Clarke and Oconee counties as interim District Attorney beginning March 1. I am ready to run the office on Day One because of my nearly 18 years as an actual prosecutor here and my proven experience in criminal courtrooms. I have personally tried more than 100 felony and misdemeanor trials to a jury verdict and have litigated more than 150 appeals in the appellate courts. No matter when there is an election, I am prepared to make my case to voters. In the meantime, I intend to do my job at the highest level and to serve this community every day as interim District Attorney.” -

Listen

news

amazon alexa

Enable our Skill today to listen live at home on your Alexa Devices!