A selection committee has completed its search and interview process for the post of Broome County public defender.

MICHAEL BAKER (Photo: Broome County Government)
MICHAEL BAKER (Photo: Broome County Government)
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County Executive Jason Garnar Tuesday announced Michael Baker is being appointed to the job. Baker has been serving as acting public defender since Jay Wilber retired on March 30.

Baker has worked in the county public defender's office since 2005. He had been the chief assistant public defender before he began to oversee the office on an acting basis.

Garnar said a Merit Selection Committee reviewed "several highly qualified" applicants as part of the review process. He said Baker was the committee's choice for the job.

In a statement issued by the county executive's office, Baker said he's looking forward to following in the "office's history of providing vigorous representation as well as addressing" social problems like substance abuse addiction and untreated mental health issues.

Baker's appointment must be approved by the county legislature.
Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: 
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