Kathleen Montoya, to become the next State Public Defender after Raphael Messi steps down.
In a statement, the Governors office said:
On November 4th, the Governor’s office was contacted by current State Public Defender Raphael Messi to advise he would be stepping down from the role to move towards other projects on December 5th. Under Mr. Messi’s care, his Defenders have watched over the rights of countless cases, and the office has thrived and expanded. We look forward to whatever Mr. Messi can do next for our state.
His absence leaves big shoes to fill, but after careful consideration we believe to have found the right person in Kathleen Montoya. Mrs. Montoya is currently the Assistant State Public Defender and has served admirably in her job showing intelligence, diligence, and care for her clients. While a loss, this handover was anticipated and prepared for to ensure a smooth transition. We have every faith in our nomination of Mrs. Montoya, pending approval by the state legislature.
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