Interim Maricopa County attorney announces leadership team

PHOENIX — Interim Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell announced her leadership team Wednesday as she holds the office until later this year when a special election takes place to determine who will serve the remainder of Allister Adel’s term.

Mitchell, who is one of the candidates vying for the office and was picked by the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors for the interim role last month, said the various changes of leadership became effective Monday.

Paul Ahler rejoined the office as chief deputy after holding the role under former County Attorney Rick Romley, according to a press release.

“Paul is one of the most seasoned and respected leaders in our profession,” Mitchell said in the release.

“My focus on quickly addressing the leadership issues in this office requires someone who can step into the job on day one and understand the role. While some of the issues and faces have changed since Paul was last at the office, he has a deep understanding and respect for the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office and cares deeply for our community.”

Ken Vick, who Ahler is replacing, will stay with the office as a special assistant to Ahler, Mitchell said.

Mithcell also announced Jennifer Liewer will be her chief of staff after previously serving as the communications director under Adel. Liewer will continue to lead communication efforts in her new role, Mitchell said, as well as oversee facilities, human resources and diversity efforts.

Liewer had previously resigned from the office in February while Adel was in office, citing a mutual loss of trust and confidence in professional interactions

Mark Stribling was promoted to chief of investigations in replacement of Billy Long, who will remain in the office in a new capacity, according to the release.

Tom Van Dorn will focus on connecting and communicating with public safety after being the director of investigations, Mitchell said.

It was also announced that Civil Services Division Chief Tom Liddy and Legislative Liaison Rebecca Baker will report directly to Mitchell, with those positions previously reporting to the chief deputy and chief of staff, according to the release.

Mitchell and Gina Godbehere are the Republican candidates to take on Democrat Julie Gunnigle in November’s general election for the role that will be up for reelection again in 2024.

Adel died on April 30 due to health complications after resigning from her position as county attorney in March following a tumultuous time in office.

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