NEW YORK, NY—In a significant move towards enhancing public safety and justice, Mayor Eric Adams today announced the appointment of four new judges to the New York City Criminal Court. This decision underscores the administration’s commitment to a fair and efficient justice system.
“Public safety and justice are the prerequisites to prosperity, and these judges have the experience and integrity required to ensure that the criminal justice system continues to work for the betterment of all New Yorkers,” Mayor Adams stated during the announcement.
City Hall Chief Counsel Lisa Zornberg highlighted the appointments as a reinforcement of the city’s dedication to democratic ideals and judicial independence. “In appointing four new criminal court judges, this administration reaffirms its commitment to justice that is fair and swift for all New Yorkers,” Zornberg said.
The newly appointed judges, who all took their oaths in April 2024, bring a diverse range of experiences to the bench:
- Judge Edward Daniels has a background in both private practice and public service, with significant experience in criminal defense, including as a senior staff attorney in the homicide practice at Brooklyn Defender Services.
- Judge Daniel Lewis comes to the bench after a varied career spanning private law practice and extensive prosecutorial work, including leadership roles at the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance’s Criminal Investigations Division and the Queens County District Attorney’s Office.
- Judge Michelle Weber has progressed through various prosecutorial roles at the Kings County District Attorney’s Office, where she served notably in the Special Victims and Domestic Violence Bureaus, culminating in her leadership of the Elder Abuse Unit.
- Judge Christopher Whitehair has dedicated over 15 years to public defense with the Queens Defenders and held significant administrative roles including director of recruitment and hiring.
The appointments of Judges Daniels, Lewis, Weber, and Whitehair are part of Mayor Adams’ broader strategy to ensure the city’s criminal justice system remains robust and equitable.