Abbott Appoints Holley Montgomery County DA

MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Texas – January 3, 2024 – Governor Greg Abbott has officially appointed Brett W. Holley as the new District Attorney for the 9th Judicial District, which encompasses Montgomery County, Texas. The appointment, effective immediately, follows the resignation of former District Attorney Brett Ligon, who stepped down on January 1, 2024, to assume a judicial position.

Holley, who most recently served as the First Assistant District Attorney for the 9th Judicial District, brings nearly two decades of prosecutorial experience to the county’s top law enforcement role. A veteran prosecutor, he has been with the Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office since 2004. Throughout his tenure, Holley has handled a wide array of complex and sensitive cases, including capital murders, aggravated robberies, and sexual assaults. His leadership roles within the office include heading the Special Crimes Division and serving as Chief of the Trial Division.

The transition comes as Brett Ligon concluded his service as District Attorney to accept Governor Abbott’s appointment to the 435th District Court in Montgomery County. Ligon’s move to the bench, announced in late 2023, created the vacancy that Holley now fills, ensuring continuity in the critical functions of the District Attorney’s office.

In a statement announcing the appointment, Governor Abbott commended Holley’s extensive qualifications and commitment to public service. “Brett Holley has dedicated his career to upholding justice and serving the people of Montgomery County,” Governor Abbott stated. “His profound experience as a prosecutor, his proven leadership within the District Attorney’s Office, and his unwavering commitment to public safety make him an exceptional choice to lead the 9th Judicial District. I am confident he will continue to serve with the utmost integrity and distinction.”

Holley expressed gratitude for the gubernatorial appointment and reiterated his dedication to the community. “I am deeply honored and humbled by Governor Abbott’s trust in me to serve as District Attorney for Montgomery County,” Holley said. “My professional life has been dedicated to seeking justice for victims and ensuring the safety of our community. I look forward to continuing that vital work, leading our highly capable team, and upholding the rule of law for all citizens of the 9th Judicial District.”

Holley will serve as District Attorney until the next general election, scheduled for November 5, 2024. He is widely anticipated to seek election to a full term during that election cycle. The District Attorney is responsible for prosecuting all criminal cases filed within the county and working closely with law enforcement agencies to maintain public order and safety.

Holley’s professional excellence has been consistently recognized; he was named Prosecutor of the Year by the Montgomery County Law Enforcement Association in both 2017 and 2022. He is also Board Certified in Criminal Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, a prestigious accreditation signifying extensive knowledge and experience in criminal law. Educationally, Holley earned his law degree from South Texas College of Law and holds a Bachelor of Science from Texas A&M University.

Official information regarding the appointment can be found on the Governor’s website, and further details on the Montgomery County District Attorney’s Office and its functions are available on the county’s official website.