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New city judge, prosecutor sworn in
pangburn sworn in
Newly appointed Municipal Court Judge Kenneth Pangburn, right, is sworn in by Probate Judge Nancy Aspinwall, assisted by Mayor Jim Thomas. - photo by Photo provided.

Newly appointed Municipal Court Judge Kenneth Pangburn and prosecuting attorney Richard E. Braun Jr. took their respective oaths of office Tuesday afternoon in the Hinesville Room at city hall.
Liberty County Probate Judge Nancy Aspinwall administered the oaths. Hinesville Mayor Jim Thomas also took part in the oath ceremony.
Following the oaths, Thomas told a group of about 20 city officials, friends, family members and professional colleagues that just as it is important for citizens to elect people who are professional and capable, it is equally important for those who are elected to appoint professional, capable men and women to justice system positions.
Thomas said Pangburn and Braun will serve in two of the most important jobs in Hinesville. They will be responsible for enforcing and administering the laws of the city, he said.
“I’m honored, and I want to thank all of you for coming out and showing your support for Richie and me,” Pangburn said. “I promised to perform fairly, evenhandedly and efficiently, as best I can.”
Pangburn, a retired Army colonel and former judge advocate general officer, previously served with the juvenile-justice system and as chairman of the Hinesville Grievance and Appeals Committee. He was nominated and approved for the municipal-judge position by the Hinesville City Council on Aug. 7.
Braun was serving as the assistant city attorney when he was nominated and approved as the prosecuting attorney for municipal court by the city council. A graduate of the University of Mississippi School of Law, Braun has more than 15 years’ experience as an attorney.
“My job is an advocate, and I advocate for the officers,” Braun said, emphasizing his support for law enforcement. “I know the effort and time the staff puts in keeping this court running efficiently, and I will ensure professionalism and efficiency.”

Courier staffer Randy C. Murray contributed to this report.

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