Though set to vacate his seat on June 30, Superior Court Judge Brooks E. Blitch decided to leave his position as chief judge of the Alapaha Judicial Circuit two weeks ahead of schedule.

Gov. Sonny Perdue recently received a letter from Blitch, which stated that his judicial duties were complete and that he planned to leave the office June 15.

Two months ago, Blitch announced plans not to seek re-election and expressed a desire to resign and return to private life. In a press release, he stated, “I am proud of my service for almost 28 years as judge of the Superior Court of the Alapaha Circuit, and I appreciate the trust the citizens have shown me during those years. I am 73 years of age, and I have planned for some time to return to private life.”

In light of the announcement of his resignation, 12 ethics charges against Blitch, filed by the Judicial Qualifications Commission, were dropped.

A consent order was filed by the commission and outlined conditions that Blitch must resign from his position as superior court judge by June 30, agree not to preside over or take any action in a criminal proceedings and agree to retire from judicial office.

The formal proceedings, stem from a federal investigation into the Alapaha Judicial Circuit. The investigation has led to several felony charges against county employees, which include former Court Clerk Daniel Lecesse, who pleaded guilty in federal court to making $73,286 in illegal payments to himself and other employees as ordered by Blitch. Other Clinch County officials under investigation include Clinch County Sheriff Winston Peterson, indicted on federal charges of obstruction and perjury and Judge Linda Peterson, indicted on federal charges of perjury and false statements.

Perdue’s Judicial Nominating Commission is currently reviewing three candidates for the vacant position.

Among them are Mickey Johnson, a Berrien County attorney, Howard McClain, a Cook County attorney and Assistant U.S. Attorney Donald Johstono Jr. From this short list, Gov. Perdue will make his appointment to fill the seat.