On Thursday, Carson City Supervisors appointed Garrit Pruyt to fill the vacancy left by District Attorney Jason Woodbury, who was recently appointed by Gov. Joe Lombardo to become the new First Judicial District Court Department I judge. 

That judge appointment opened up due to the retirement of Judge James Todd Russell who retired in October. 

Woodbury has served as the Carson City DA for a decade. Pruyt has been employed by the DA’s office since 2015 and currently oversees the criminal division for Carson City’s District Attorney’s Office. 

Members of city staff as well as board members commended both Woodbury and Pruyt on their service to the city. 

Assistant DA Dan Yu said Woodbury has “maintained high ethical standards” along with a strong moral compass, and said he believes Pruyt will lead the DA’s office with the same characteristics. 

Supervisor Stacey Giomi became emotional speaking about Woodbury, commending him for his leadership in a position that he said is at times “very difficult.” 

“I’m a little emotional because it’s sad to lose you in that role, but you’re going to make one hell of a judge,” Giomi said. 

Pruyt will take on the elected position of DA for the remainder of Woodbury’s term which extends through 2025. 

The DA’s office issued the following statement following Pruyt’s appointment: 

Congratulations to Garrit Pruyt for his unanimous appointment by the Board of Supervisors to Carson City District Attorney! Your new role is a testament to your incredible leadership and work ethic, and we look forward to serving the people of Carson City under your guidance.

Kelsey is a fourth-generation Nevadan, English professor and investigative journalist working in the Sierras. More importantly, she is an advocate of high desert agriculture and rescue dogs.