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As Harford's state's attorney; Cassilly sworn in for 4 more years

BY KIRSTEN DIZE

Posted 1/05/11

Harford County State’s Attorney Joe Cassilly officially started a new term Monday, and while he says it was the last time he will be sworn in as state’s attorney, it may not be the last time he is sworn to an elected office

“I didn’t want to run for this job,” Cassilly said Monday, as he added to his record-breaking tenure as the county’s top prosecutor.

With his wife, Diana, by his side in the ceremonial courtroom on the second floor of the Harford County Courthouse, Cassilly took the oath for his unprecedented eighth term.

During a brief address to family members, guests and other well wishers following the swearing in, Cassilly gave a recap of the past few years and a glimpse of what is to come.

He explained it wasn’t his initial plan to run for state’s attorney in the 1980s because he liked trying cases and had no interest in politics.

When he was first elected in 1982, he expected to be in office for one or two terms then move on.

Nearly three decades later, Cassilly says it’s almost time for that next thing.

He said while he has announced this term will be his last as state’s attorney, he added it will not necessarily be his last swearing in ceremony.

Following his address, Cassilly said positions as circuit court judge, county executive and even federal judge could be options once he concludes his final term as state’s attorney in 2014.

Regardless of his future, Cassilly promised his full attention to his current office.

“It’s going to be an interesting four years,” Cassilly said.

He thanked those gathered, including Havre de Grace Police Chief Teresa Walter, Bel Air Police Chief Leo Matrangola, State Police Bel Air Barrack Commander Lt. Charles Moore and Sheriff L. Jesse Bane, Circuit Court Judge William Carr and members of his family and staff.

“If I’ve ever done anything smart it was hiring you,” Cassilly said to the gathered staff.

Cassilly said he recently met with newly elected state’s attorneys in Baltimore City and Cecil County and answered the question of why Harford County is recognized as such a successful state’s attorney’s office.

“I said basically people,” he said.

He also thanked police officers for the quality of work they do in providing prosecutors with solid cases.

“It makes our job easier,” he explained.

Cassilly said his office has made significant progress during his last term and exciting changes are on the horizon, including a new computer system.

“There are plans for the future,” Cassilly said.

Cassilly characterized the office of state’s attorney as “truly the love of my professional life,” and he wrapped up his address so the assistant state’s attorneys could get to court.

“Don’t screw it up over there,” Cassilly said to them with a laugh.