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Robert Willis to return as assistant state attorneyBy Carrie A. Mizell
When he decided to run for public office in 2008, Willis was required by law to resign his position within the State Attorney’s Office to avoid potential conflicts of interest. June 20, 2008 marked Willis’ last day at the State Attorney’s Office. “It was painful to resign, but I completely understand the law that required it,” Willis said on Tuesday. Andrea Muirhead took over Willis’ position as assistant state attorney, until funds became available for State Attorney Bill Cervone to re-hire Willis. In the meantime, Willis has worked in private practice with Bell attorney Ray Earl Thomas. “I was very happy to be able to continue working locally,” Willis said. According to Willis, the plan was always for him to resume his position with the State Attorney’s Office if his bid for sheriff was unsuccessful, but unfortunately funds were not available in November 2008 to re-instate Willis due to state budget constraints. Willis explained that due to the budget being withheld, there were no additional funds until just two weeks ago when a senior felony attorney in Gainesville retired from his position within the State Attorney’s Office. “I am excited to be back at the state attorney’s office, and able to serve the county again,” Willis said. “I think the state attorney’s position is the second most important position within the local court system, falling behind the roadside deputy’s job.” Willis said the assistant state attorney only prosecutes a case; it is law enforcement’s job to present the case. State Attorney Bill Cervone said he will be glad to have Willis back in the office. He pointed out that Willis is a resident of Gilchrist County and said it is always better to have an assistant state attorney who is a resident of the county he or she is working in, rather than having to send someone over from Gainesville. |
