WINTON – In a special ceremony held in the Superior Courtroom in Winton, Chief Magistrate Leonard &uot;Duke&uot; Mobley was recognized for over 15 years of dedicated service to the community.

Resident Superior Court Judge for District 6B Cy A. Grant expressed his gratitude Mobley’s contributions stating, &uot;Magistrates are very important to the judicial system, because they help citizens from all walks of life and initiate the issuance of warrants, when they are necessary.

&uot;Often times, they see people at their worst, ones that have been victims of crimes who are upset and agitated and it takes a very special person to fill that role,&uot; he said.

Mobley, originally from Williamston, studied pathology and sociology at Elizabeth City State University in North Carolina before transferring to Morgan State University in Baltimore, MD and began his career as a magistrate when former Clerk of Superior Court, Dick Vann approached him with the opportunity.

&uot;Mr. Vann knew my wife, who was working as the Chief Counselor for Juvenile Court for District 6B at the time, so I guess he figured I was good people,&uot; said Mobley smiling. &uot;He asked me if I would be interested in serving as a magistrate and the rest is history.&uot;

Inviting Mobley to join him in the front of the courtroom, Grant presented him with a commemorative gift of his choice (a set of binoculars) and highlighted some of the characteristics that enabled him to perform his job well and command the respect of others.

&uot;Being a magistrate is no easy job,&uot; he said. &uot;It requires a lot of patience, wisdom, common sense, intellect and professionalism and Mr. Mobley possesses every one of those qualities. He is an asset to this community and to the judicial system.&uot;

He also commended Mobley’s wife for the unceasing support of her husband and his service stating, &uot;There is always a good woman behind a good man and this is no exception.&uot;

In light of his recognition, Mobley commented, &uot;I really enjoy serving the community in this fashion, especially when I can help somebody. I love working with people and being recognized like this is truly an honor. I feel greatly appreciated.&uot;

Mobley’s wife Annie added, &uot;I think he’s truly indicative of what the judge said about him. He is both strong and highly respected. I appreciate the job he’s doing and the service he’s providing to the people of Hertford County.&uot;

Mobley and his wife have been married 41 years and have two grown children.