Petersburg gets new judge, new top prosecutor

PETERSBURG — The 11th District’s newest judge will take her seat at the bench Wednesday for the first time since the General Assembly appointed her in March.

Cheryl J. Wilson was recognized for the leap into judgeship after serving for 26 years in the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office, three of those as the top prosecutor. She becomes the district’s first Black female judge and will preside over the Juvenile and Domestic Relations court, replacing Judge Valentine W. Southall Jr.

Friends and legal colleagues called Wilson smart, humble and wise at her swearing-in ceremony late last week. They also noted her for her quiet yet assured demeanor.

“I have observed her in the courtroom and meetings, and I can tell you, the same reserved thinking prevails at all times,” said Sheriff Vanessa Crawford, whose office is intertwined with the courts. “Quiet, and always thinking and always the voice of reason. I know she will carry that same thoughtful, quiet demeanor as she assumes her role as the first African American female judge in the 11th judicial circuit.”

Wilson has continually stated her desire to work with youth and create “alternative resolutions” for juveniles in the criminal justice system.

Former Petersburg Commonwealth’s Attorney Cassandra S. Conover was in attendance at the ceremony Friday. She was Wilson’s supervisor before retiring in 2017.

Wilson said Conover’s demeanor was opposite to hers, fiery and outspoken, adding that she was the calm while Conover was “sometimes” the storm.

Conover said Wilson has everything it takes to make a great judge, having tried a number of cases and been involved in the law for over two decades. She said that Wilson’s toughest challenge on the other side of the bench will be abstaining from coaching the lawyers in front of her in cases.

“I think what’s going to be hardest for her is not getting on the lawyers’ backs if she thinks they could be doing better, saying why are you not objecting. That’s going to be the hardest adjustment for her,” Conover said.

Wilson is one of two former Conover employees being elevated. Tiffany Buckner was chosen to replace Wilson as Petersburg’s new commonwealth’s attorney, having served as a deputy for 10 years.

She was also hired to the office by Conover, who said it felt like her “children” were finally earning what they deserved.

Wilson said that her vacated position was now in capable hands.

Having been a colleague and mentor, Wilson told Buckner that some things you can only learn when in the job.

“I explained to her that it’s time to learn by fire,” Wilson said. “She’s been there for 10 years, she’s tried a number of cases. She understands the law, she’s passionately committed. That’s the kind of person that you want. She will do a fantastic job.”

Buckner credits her strong parents and professional role models for her success.

She grew up in a family with 11 siblings. Buckner’s mother brought her to law school classes at John Jay College of Criminal Justice in New York and was always told that getting an education was not optional.

After being hired to the CA’s office in Petersburg, she had a new set of mentors to guide her.

“These people brought me along and showed me what leadership meant, what being a minister of justice means, what being a servant to the public entails; for that I am grateful,” Buckner said.

Buckner’s term officially began last Friday.

Sean Jones can be reached at 804-722-5172 or sjones@progress-index.com. On Twitter: @SeanJones_PI