Mortensen sworn in as prosecutor

COEUR d’ALENE — For the first time since 2009, Kootenai County has a new prosecuting attorney.

Mortensen, a Post Falls resident with 10 years of prosecutorial experience, took the oath of office Friday morning. He replaces longtime Prosecuting Attorney Barry McHugh, who will take the bench in January.

Commissioners voted 2-1 last month to appoint Mortensen as McHugh’s successor.

Mortensen said he looks forward to serving the residents of Kootenai County in his new role.

“I appreciate the faith and trust they’ve put in me,” he said.

Mortensen got his start as a detention deputy with the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office.

While working for the sheriff’s office, he graduated from North Idaho College and Lewis-Clark State College. He became a patrol deputy before leaving law enforcement to enter law school.

For McHugh, his last day was one of mixed emotions.

“After so long, it’s hard to leave,” he said. “But I’m very happy with (Mortensen’s) appointment and excited for the future of the office.”

McHugh will replace Judge Lansing Haynes, who retired in May. He ran unopposed in May’s election, garnering a little more than 26,000 votes.

Mortensen said retaining experienced lawyers in the civil and criminal divisions is a top priority. He also aims to attract new talent to fill vacant positions.

“We have a great office,” he said.