COUNTY LEGISLATURE APPROVES PUBLIC DEFENDER BUILDING BOND

Poughkeepsie, NY – The Dutchess County Public Defender’s office provides an invaluable service to those accused of crimes and our judicial system. The U.S. Constitution’s Sixth Amendment declares that each person accused of a crime have the “assistance of counsel for his defense.” Further, the accused may choose to be represented by a public defender, at no cost to them, in order to protect their legal rights and ensure a fair trial.Dutchess County is committed to providing the proper resources to those who choose to be represented by a public defender. A piece of that requires the Public Defender’s Office have an adequate space to properly consult with their clients. The bond approved by the Legislature at their April Board Meeting will fund the completion of the new Public Defender’s Office, located at 45 Market Street in Poughkeepsie. By locating the new office across the street from the Dutchess County Courthouse it will streamline the efficiency of the department. The Public Defender’s Office will move into the new building by the end of 2018.

“This project will allow our Public Defender’s office to expand by an estimated 20 employees, over the next several years, and provide better services to their clients,” said Chairman Gregg Pulver.