On Friday, September 20, 2024, the Las Vegas Review-Journal reported that Cynthia Cruz resigned from her position as chief judge of the Las Vegas Justice Court. The resignation became effective on Thursday afternoon, as confirmed by her campaign manager, Tom Letizia. Cruz will now focus on hearing civil cases, as well as those related to drug court and DUI treatment, areas in which she has previously presided.
Letizia explained that Cruz’s decision to step down was motivated by her intention to concentrate fully on her judicial duties and serve the community in the role for which she was elected. He emphasized that her passion lies in engaging directly with the public from the bench.
In her resignation letter, Cruz expressed that her decision was made after careful consideration and a strong sense of responsibility. She began her two-year term as chief judge on January 1, 2023, after being selected for the role in 2022.
Letizia also noted that Cruz’s resignation does not signify an abrupt departure, as she is nearing the end of her term and is actively involved in a political campaign. Currently, Cruz is competing for the Justice Court’s Department 5 seat against Chief Deputy District Attorney Madilyn “Leavitt” Cole.
Cole responded to Cruz’s resignation by stating that it highlights the need for strong leadership in Department 5. She expressed confidence in her own candidacy, suggesting that her entry into the race was encouraged by the community’s desire for effective leadership in the court.
Source: Las Vegas Review-Journal
