Henderson County -- September 11, 2026: The Henderson County Sheriff’s Office has announced the hiring of former District Attorney Greg Newman as its new staff attorney. The decision has drawn attention due to Newman’s removal from his previous role in 2021 for professional misconduct.
Sheriff Lowell Griffin confirmed the appointment, noting Newman replaces Ron Justice, who retired on August 28, 2026, after serving as staff attorney since 2018. The Sheriff’s Office publicly welcomed Newman in a social media post on September 8, 2026.
Newman previously served as District Attorney for North Carolina’s District 42, which covers Henderson, Polk, and Transylvania counties, from 2013 to 2021. He also served as mayor of Hendersonville from 2005 to 2009. His tenure as District Attorney concluded with his removal from office in 2021 following disciplinary action by the North Carolina State Bar.
Bar discipline (2020): The North Carolina State Bar censured Newman after finding he made a false statement during a child rape prosecution; although issued a suspension, he retained his authorization to practice law.
Removal petition (February 2021): Over a dozen local families across Henderson, Polk, and Transylvania counties petitioned the court to oust him, citing repeated instances of willful misconduct.
Key allegations: Core complaints centered on his case management, most notably a sexual assault prosecution where the victim’s family asserted Newman shut them out of their right to address the court.
Judicial ouster (April 27, 2021): Following an evidentiary hearing featuring testimony from law enforcement, colleagues, and former clients, Superior Court Judge Robert C. Ervin permanently stripped Newman of his role as district attorney.
Subsequent career: Newman preserved his law license following the separate State Bar action and has remained in private legal practice since his removal.
Image: Henderson County Sheriffs Office