Monroe County needs a new public defender, with longtime incumbent Tim Donaher stepping down. The office handles representation for thousands of people every year -- many of whom can't afford an attorney.
Last week the acting public defender, Jill Paperno, announced she was stepping down when it was revealed that a selection committee did not grant her even a second interview. Critics say the committee could be on the verge of making a political patronage appointment, giving the job to someone who has never defended a client in court. Monroe County Legislature President Sabrina LaMar has defended the process but declined to be interviewed about it.
We discuss the process with our guests:
- Bob Bonn, member of the original committee to find a merit-based public defender 50 years ago
- Natalie Ann Knott, former public defender
- Zachary King, chairman of the Monroe County Democratic Committee
- Jeremy Moule, news editor for CITY Magazine
