Committee approves conflict policy as Public Defender office reports caseloads above ILS limit

The Public Safety Committee on July 28 approved a Conflict of Interest Policy for attorneys in the Assigned Counsel Office and the Public Defender Office after hearing that recent staffing fills and contract changes should reduce conflicts and associated costs. Public Defender Mike Mercure told the committee, "Filled all open positions which should help with conflicts and keep their caseload volume where it should be." The motion to approve the policy was moved by Mr. O’Brien, seconded by Mr. Herrick and adopted.