I think I will miss some aspects of the assistant state attorney s job, but overall I could not be happier, Drake said. This has been a dream of mine and a goal of mine. I am honored and humbled at the same time.
Drake said he learned Tuesday of DeSantis decision to appoint him to the judgeship from a field of five candidates. The bulk of the interview process took place in February and March.
Due to movement within the First Circuit judiciary prompted by the retirement of Goodman and the resignation of another judge, Drake actually will take on the criminal and civil docket of Judge John Simon, who is moving to Escambia County.