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Eric Coale has been appointed as the Escambia County District Judge by Governor Kay Ivey.

Judge Bert Rice announced earlier this year in January that he would not be seeking re-election as Circuit Court Judge.

Judge Jeff White ran for Rice’s position and was elected and that left open the position for District Judge.

“When the position opened, I presented my resume. I was interviewed for the position and received an e-mail form the Governor’s Office offering me the position this week,” Coale said.

“I have always devoted myself to working with young people and families and this position will offer me to continue that work. The entire country is facing a drug epidemic and that leads to family troubles. Those are the areas that need the most focus on,” Coale said.

Judge Rice has setup various programs during his seat in office to help battle drug problems and Coale wishes to continue those programs and seek funding for other programs to aid.

“I haven’t really got into the meat of everything yet but I want to focus on helping bring new programs to aid in eliminating the drug problem in our community,” Coale said.

“My goal is to do the best job possible and treat everyone with fairness and with respect while following the law. I want to be of help to people when I can. I am overjoyed that people have confidence in me. It’s always been a dream to serve as a District Judge and it is a privilege to serve this county,” said Coale.

Coale has served as the assistant attorney general for the Escambia County Department of Human Resources for more than 17 years and has also served as an assistant district attorney for more than 13 years.

Coale is a republican, member of First Baptist Church of Brewton, a graduate of T.R. Miller High School and the University of Alabama where he earned a degree in finance.

He has also earned a law degree from Jones Law School.

Judge Eric Coale will take office on Jan. 15.