Doug Sasser takes oath as Superior Court judge

Douglas Byron Sasser of Hallsboro was sworn in Monday afternoon as Columbus County’s resident Superior Court judge in ceremonies attended by more than 225 people from Bladen, Brunswick and Columbus counties.

Appointed in mid-October by Gov. Mike Easley to succeed William C. Gore Jr. of Whiteville, Sasser was given a rousing, standing ovation by the large crowd.

“This means the world to me. It’s an honor and I take this oath with enthusiasm. I promise my best, and I may not be right all the time,” the young judge stated.

More than 90 people lined the walls of the courtroom, and were stacked four deep at the doors. Another 135 were packed into the 14 rows of seats.

Superior Court Judge Jack Hooks Jr. of Whiteville, serving an appointed term as a special judge, presided, and noted the very warm courtroom because of the large crowd.

“I know a former judge (Gore), who is well known as being sensitive to heat, would agree with me that we need to adjust the air conditioning,” Hooks quipped as he opened the ceremony.

Chief District Court Judge Jerry Jolly pointed out Sasser’s outstanding work for nearly eight years, particularly with juvenile cases in three counties.

Jolly also thanked Sasser for his loyalty to fellow district judges, and assistance with their problems.

Gore, who retired in August to become director of the state’s Division of Motor Vehicles, brought greetings from Easley, and pointed out he was delighted with the governor’s choice to succeed him.

“If all these people support you like they did me for 27 years, then it’ll be a pleasant journey as you begin your work,” Gore declared.

Sasser is the new senior resident Superior Court judge for the counties of Bladen and Columbus. Brunswick County was taken out of the district in 2006.

Portions of letters praising Sasser from Congressman Mike McIntyre, Lt. Gov. Beverly Perdue and Superior Court Judge Ola Lewis were read to the assembled group.

After nearly 20 minutes was consumed by recognizing elected officials including senators and representatives, District Court judges, the district attorney and staff, the three county sheriffs and their employees, police chiefs and officers, probation officers, three county clerks of court and staff, judge’s staff, and news media, Hooks had the quip of the day.

“I would suggest that anyone who was not asked to stand is probably a defendant,” Hooks said. He also noted the three sheriffs and their officers should use a metal detector on the group of private citizens not asked to stand. (Bob High)