New DA takes over with plenty of cases on his plate

Rick Shaffer officially became the new district attorney for Cleveland County today during a swearing in ceremony in Lincolnton. Shaffer represents the the 27B district, which incldues Cleveland and Lincoln counties.

Shaffer enters the office with plenty of high profile cases for him and his staff of assistant district attorneys to tackle.

In the next week or so, look for a more in-depth look at Shaffer's goals and views on topics including the death penalty and plea agreements. I will also be looking to create a list of high profile open cases that are likely to be resolved in the coming year.

Here are a few I will be looking out for:
Billy Ray Bridges - charged with first-degree murder of his neighbor in Patterson Springs
Marty Wayne Dover - charged with rape of a Lavander Road woman
Virginia Dubre - charged with embezzlement from the Cleveland County Historical Museum
Pam Green - charged with embezzlement from Youth Assistance Program

If you have any cases that you think are still open and would like me to look into feel free to give me a call at 704-484-7000 ext. 120 or post it here for discussion.