Court appoints Peace Justice

Mirror Photo H. DELOYD BAILEY was appointed Pct. 1 JP to replace the recently-resigned Tim Cariker.

Upshur County Commissioners, at their meeting Friday (May 31), appointed a retired attorney to take over the Pct. 1 Justice of the Peace office, effective Sunday.

H. Deloyd Bailey was appointed following an executive session in which he was interviewed by commissioners. Prior to retirement, Bailey practiced law in Wichita Falls.

In moving to appoint him, Pct. 1 Comm. James Crittenden said that “it is only fair.” He said Bailey had indicated that he would not be a candidate for the office in November, and that this would make it fair for candidates of the Republican and Democratic parties.

The precinct executive committees of each party have until Aug. 8 to nominate their candidates for the office. Whoever is elected in November will take office immediately and serve until the next election.

It became available when incumbent Pct. 1 Justice of the Peace Tim Cariker submitted his resignation, over allegations that he used office employees and materials in his private legal practice.

Bailey said that he had retired to Upshur County because he had friends here and liked the terrain.

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