By Haley Mitchell Godwin

A swearing-in ceremony for the newly appointed Crenshaw County District Judge Jon M. Folmar, was held May 17 at 3 p.m. inside the Crenshaw County Courthouse main courtroom. The oath of office was administered by Judge Cleveland (Clay) Poole, the presiding judge of the Second Judicial Circuit, which encompasses Butler, Crenshaw and Lowndes Counties. 

“It is a great day here in Crenshaw County,” Poole said. “It is an honor today to be involved in the investiture of the new district judge Jon M. Folmar.”

The  ceremony commenced with a prayer by Crenshaw County Commission Chairman Charlie Sankey Jr. Following the prayer, Folmar took the oath of office, placing his hand on the Bible and swearing to support the constitutions of the United States and Alabama and to serve the citizens of Crenshaw County with integrity, respect and diligence.

Judge Folmar, who has served as the Assistant District Attorney for the 12th Judicial Circuit for over three decades, delivered heartfelt remarks expressing gratitude to the many mentors and colleagues he has worked with who have shaped his career. 

“I’ve gotten to work alongside several great people,” Folmar said. “Judge Tom Head and Judge Robert Barr, who I had the privilege of practicing and trying cases in front of. Without them (and others) I would not be the man I am today.”

Judge Folmar also thanked the community members in attendance and extended profound appreciation to his family for their unwavering support. 

“My family has been there for me and we have laughed together and cried together throughout my journey as a judge. Most of all, I want to thank my wife of 32 years Gina, who tread the way for me 40 years ago when she took her job as a juvenile probation officer.”

Although Folmar is a Troy native, he said he and his family have fully embraced life in Crenshaw County. 

“We love Crenshaw County life,” said Folmar. “We are here and we love everything about Crenshaw County. The people here are some of the very best you will ever meet and I appreciate them all. From old friends to new friends, I appreciate you all being here.”

Refreshments were served following the ceremony as guests offered their congratulations to Alabama’s newest district court judge.