HALIFAX—In the words of the Honorable Brenda G. Branch, presiding, the May 30, 2024, ceremonial program to swear in the first assistant public defenders for District 7 was an occasion to embrace the establishment of the new office and to demonstrate a community’s commitment to “move these counties forward to a new day of justice.”
“Today is a significant moment,” said Chief Public Defender Tonza Ruffin. “The role of an assistant public defender is both challenging and rewarding. It is a role that requires compassion, resilience, and a profound sense of duty to uphold the Constitutional Rights of every individual.
Upon the administration of the oath by the Honorable Cy Grant, Sr., the newest APDs of District 7 heard words of encouragement from other district judges, attorneys of the local bar, the elected District Attorney, the Sheriff of Halifax County and others. The defense team of District 7 received statements of support and encouragement from many judicial officials and legal professionals. The local DA expressed gratitude for their service and shared her excitement about the lines of communication being open we well as recent conversations about how, “You can ‘do good’ in a courtroom regardless of where you are sitting at the table.”
“Judge Grant and Judge Branch,” said Chief Ruffin, “It is with great pride and confidence that I present to you Summer Branch, Monique Ferebee, Johnnie Finch, Sherita Gooding, Kanter Morris, Walter Rand, and Dorn Summey…I am confident that they will uphold the highest standards as assistant public defenders and contribute meaningfully to the pursuit of justice in District 7.”