Santa Barbara County District Attorney Joyce Dudley retires

SANTA BARBARA COUNTY, Calif. – Santa Barbara County District Attorney Joyce Dudley will officially retire after swearing in her replacement District Attorney-elect John Savrnoch on Jan. 3 at 11 a. m.

“I have complete faith in John being able to not just lead our office, but increase public safety and justice throughout Santa Barbara County,” said Dudley.

District Attorney Joyce Dudley was first elected to the position in 2010 after serving 20 years as a Deputy District Attorney specializing in prosecuting violent crimes against the vulnerable.

During her tenure, she is credited with creating an arson task force, developing a truancy program, establishing diversion programs and fighting elder abuse.

Dudley intends to leave for an extended trip to Colorado the day following the swearing in ceremony.

"I always dreamed about being able to ski to my heart’s content, so that is what this trip is all about. For me, this trip is also about discovering who I am without the most cherished positions I have held throughout my life: mother of four boys, wife, and District Attorney for the County of Santa Barbara," said Dudley.