Public defender contract increases by 20 percent

Antelope County Commissioners approved a 20% pay increase for the county’s public defender during the board’s Jan. 10 meeting in Neligh.

According to deputy county attorney, Joe Smith, the last approved contract expired in 2015.

Currently, Patrick Carney, of Norfolk, fills the role for the county and receives $38,000 annually.

He reported to commissioners he would like to continue in the position, which is an appointed office.

After an analysis, Smith recommended an increase of 20%, or $7,600. Additionally, Smith advocated for a two-year contract, from January 2023 in effect through Dec. 31, 2...