Emporium lawyers vie for DA spot

Two long-time Emporium lawyers are squaring off for a four-year term as Cameron County District Attorney.

Incumbent Tommy Tompkins, who ran unopposed for the Republican nomination in May, will face a challenge in the November election from Paul Malizia, running as an independent.

Malizia advocates that the D.A. position be designated by the Cameron County Board of Commissioners as "part-time," which would result in a lower annual salary than the current $134,600, but would also allow the district attorney to continue in private practice.

Meanwhile, Tompkins said he is planning to run on his record as an effective prosecutor. He also intends to hold a town meeting to advance his plan for a stronger partnership between citizens and law enforcement officials throughout Cameron County.