Putnam County Welcomes First New Judge in 24 Years

“It’s an historic event, in an historic building,” Chief Judge Stephen Kouri began Monday at the Putnam County Courthouse.

For the first time in 24 years a newly elected judge was welcomed to the 10th Circuit Court in Putnam County. Many of the other circuit court judges were on hand to see the swearing in.

Kouri then turned the floor over to retiring Judge Scott Shore, who thanked the crowd and swore in James Mack as a judge in the 10th Judicial District.

Mack, after thanking family, friends and colleagues, said: “Truth, justice and humanity shall in no way suffer at my hand.”

After the ceremony Circuit Clerk Cathy Oliveri, a 22-year veteran in the position, said of Mack: “I hope he does well. He has a lot to learn. He may surprise us.”

Mack then spoke on the job of public office and began swearing in newly elected and re-elected officials.

Mack began with re-elected Sheriff Kevin Doyle, County Clerk Dan Kuhn, County Treasurer Kevin Kunkel, and county board member Duane Calbow. Newly elected county board members Luke Holly and Steve Malavolti rounded out the officials sworn in.

Newly appointed state’s attorney Christina (Judd) Mennie will be sworn in at a later date. Mennie has to close her private practice before she can be sworn in to public office.

Source: News Tribune