12th Judicial District Attorney Alonzo Payne resigns
SAN LUIS VALLEY, Colo. (KRDO) -- Wednesday, the 12th Judicial District Attorney submitted his resignation.
Following District Attorney Alonzo Payne's resignation, Governor Jared Polis appointed Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser to serve as interim district attorney beginning Thursday, July 14, 2022.
According to the governor's office, the state is accepting applications for district attorney for the 12th Judicial District. Interviews are expected to begin "promptly."
His resignation comes one day after Weiser announced that Payne had "routinely failed to communicate with victims, consult with them about plea deals or case dismissals, or treat them with respect and dignity."
Weiser's office said in a press release that the people of the San Luis Valley deserve a fresh start with a new district attorney. Their investigation into violations of the Victim Rights Act revealed systemic problems in the office. They expect new leadership will improve the important work of the office.
Weiser's office says that its focus has been to ensure that the DA’s office in the 12th Judicial District complies with the law and treats crime victims with respect and dignity. Their action required DA Payne to do just that. Even with a new district attorney, those requirements will continue to apply.
Weiser said his office is committed to serving the people of the San Luis Valley in this interim role as effectively as possible, and our aim is to help put a new DA on a path to success.
"We thank the Colorado District Attorneys’ Council and district attorneys across the state for being willing to help support the Valley, advance public safety, and protect victims during this transition," said Weiser.
