Greg McGee sworn in as San Jacinto County criminal district attorney, vows to protect victims

Greg McGee took the oath of office on the courthouse steps and was sworn in as criminal district attorney of San Jacinto County by a presiding judge, pledging to "faithfully execute the duties of the office" and to "preserve, protect, and defend" the constitution and laws of the state and nation.

McGee, who recounted a law-enforcement career that began in the county courthouse as a dispatcher and progressed through roles as deputy, constable and justice of the peace, told the assembled officials, staff and residents that his office will be guided by three priorities: "protecting victims," "promoting community safety" and "building public trust." He said the prosecutor's duty, according to state statute he cited, is to "seek justice, not to convict." (Greg McGee)

The swearing-in followed a brief ceremonial program in which a judge introduced McGee, acknowledged a number of local elected officials and staff, and a prayer led by a meeting presenter. The judge also noted that the previous district attorney had submitted a resignation to the governor's office about 45 days earlier and that McGee's appointment was confirmed the day before the ceremony.

"I want each and every one of y'all and everybody in this county to have trust in the criminal district attorney and office," McGee said, adding that members of the public should come to his office if they believe something is amiss. He said he would "meet with my staff here in a little bit" to explain more details of his vision and emphasized that the office will focus on professional training for staff so "when y'all talk to them and you look at them, I want you to say these people are professionals." (Greg McGee)

During a short exchange near the close of his remarks, McGee said his office would "work together" with law enforcement and the courts and asked attendees to copy county commissioners to request a modest increase in budget support; he did not specify an amount. The judge present confirmed that required bond paperwork had been approved prior to the oath.

No formal vote was taken during the ceremony; the public event served to administer the oath, complete appointment paperwork and outline the new district attorney's priorities. McGee expressed gratitude to the governor, state legislators and local officials who supported his appointment and said he was returning from retirement to serve the county.

McGee's next procedural step, according to his remarks, is to convene his staff to begin implementing the office mission and to coordinate with local law enforcement and county leadership on resource needs. The ceremony concluded after brief closing remarks and the completion of required signatures.