Monterey County Public Defender Jim Egar Resigns

Monterey County Public Defender Jim Egar is hanging up his hat after 10 years spent representing indigent clients throughout the county. Egar officially heads for the exit Wednesday, but declined to state a reason for his decision when asked.

Egar is known as a fierce advocate for civil liberties who shed light on important issues during his tenure. In 2013, he filed a lawsuit over poor conditions at the Monterey County Jail, which was settled two years later. He then sued county officials alleging retaliation for that lawsuit.

Supervisor Fernando Armenta called him "an active public defender" who cares deeply about the community, intervention programs and homelessness. "I hope we will find a final permanent candidate who is very diverse in many areas instead of just being a competent, licensed attorney," Armenta added.

The Board met Tuesday to discuss an interim replacement, but a nationwide search for a permanent successor is already underway.

Read more about Jim Egar's resignation here.