Cobb County's first African-American female district attorney sworn in

COBB COUNTY, Ga. — History was made Monday in Cobb County.

Joyette Holmes took the oath from Gov. Brian Kemp Monday to become the first African American, and also the first woman, to be the county’s new chief prosecutor and law enforcement official.

The new district attorney was appointed by Kemp after he tapped the previous office holder, Vic Reynolds, to be director of the GBI.

Channel 2's Steve Gehlbach was there for the historic swearing-in ceremony.

"There is a seat at the table, just ask, just do, just work, just pray and it'll happen," Holmes said.

Holmes has served as Cobb County’s chief magistrate judge the past four years.

She became emotional Monday when thanking her friends, family, mentors and everyone who has helped her get to this point.

TRENDING STORIES:

Kemp called Holmes a "rising star" with the needed experience, passion and dedication.

"Without question she is the right person for this job. I know she will work hard. She will serve with integrity and she will make Cobb County proud," Kemp said.

Holmes, a former prosecutor and defense lawyer, says her number one priority is public safety.

From taking on gangs and drug rings to better balancing which defendants deserve a second chance rather than prison, Homes said she takes every decision she makes seriously.

Holmes will serve out the rest of the vacated four-year term that ends at the end of next year. That means she will have to run for reelection in 2020 to keep the seat, which she plans on doing.

The oath and reception began at 10 a.m. at the Cobb Superior Courthouse on Haynes Street in Marietta.

Cox Media Group