![[photo, 200 St. Paul Place, Baltimore, Maryland]](/msa/mdmanual/08conoff/images/i005966b.jpg)
Appointed by Governor to 4-year terms:Leonard A. Blackshear, 2005; Barry P. Gossett, 2007; Scott L. Rolle, 2007; H. Richard Duden III, Esq, 2008; one vacancy.
Ex officio: J. Joseph Curran, Jr., Attorney General
200 St. Paul Place, Baltimore, Maryland, January 2001. Photo by Diane F. Evartt.
The State Prosecutor Selection and Disabilities Commission was authorized by a 1976 law which took effect on January 1, 1977 (Chapter 612, Acts of 1976). When the Governor notifies the Commission that a vacancy exists or is about to occur in the office of State Prosecutor, the Commission seeks and reviews applications of proposed nominees for the position. The Commission then interviews and evaluates eligible applicants and reports in writing to the Governor (within seventy days after notification) the name of the person or persons it finds to be legally and professionally qualified. The Governor may appoint or reject within thirty days of receiving the Commission's report.
If, after a hearing, the Commission finds the State Prosecutor guilty of misconduct in office, persistent failure to perform the duties of the office, or conduct prejudicial to the proper administration of justice, the Commission may reprimand the State Prosecutor or recommend to the Governor the removal from office of the State Prosecutor. The Commission also is empowered to investigate allegations made against the State Prosecutor which, if true, may warrant removal or discipline. In this regard, the Commission may conduct hearings, administer oaths and affirmations, issue process to compel attendance of witnesses and the production of evidence, and require persons to testify and produce evidence by granting them immunity from prosecution, penalty, or forfeiture (Code 1957, Art. 10, secs. 33D-33F).
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