The Pershing County Board of Commissioners held a special meeting March 11 to interview candidates for the vacant district attorney position. Jack Bullock has been serving in the role on an interim basis after Bryce Shields was appointed to fill a District Court judgeship following the death of Jim Shirley.
Two candidates—Derrick Penney and Steve Girardot—were interviewed as commissioners reviewed their qualifications, legal experience and willingness to relocate to Pershing County.
Penney currently serves as a chief deputy with the Nevada State Public Defender’s Office and previously worked as an alternate public defender in Humboldt County. He also highlighted experience as a tribal prosecutor in Arizona and said he has handled approximately 10 felony jury trials involving cases such as sexual assault, prison battery and drug offenses.
During the interview, Penney discussed his experience supervising staff, managing budgets and working with victim advocate programs. He said he would be willing to begin work immediately if selected and plans to relocate to Lovelock after the school year so his children can finish the current term.
Girardot discussed his background in criminal law, including work as a prosecutor in Tulare County. He said his experience includes handling DUI, domestic violence, child abuse and homicide cases, as well as working on homicide teams and death penalty cases.
He also outlined experience running a private law practice, supervising staff and serving in leadership roles during his military career. Girardot told commissioners he is willing to relocate to Lovelock and has already filed to run for the district attorney position in the upcoming election, though he would likely need about a month to transition from his current workload.
During questioning, commissioners asked both candidates about their familiarity with Pershing County and the responsibilities of the district attorney’s office, including advising county officials on legal matters.
Discussion also included ongoing concerns related to Burning Man, with commissioners noting the county receives limited direct revenue from the event despite significant demands on law enforcement and public services. Both candidates were asked about their willingness to review related legal issues and provide guidance.
Following the interviews, the board paused to deliberate before making a decision.
Commissioner Chuck Sayles moved to appoint Girardot, but the motion failed for lack of a second. Commissioner Joe Crim then made a motion to appoint Penney as district attorney, seconded by Connie Gottschalk. The motion passed on a 2–1 vote, with Sayles dissenting.
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