Collins sworn in as prosecutor

The first female Highland County Prosecuting Attorney, Anneka Collins, was sworn into office Wednesday in the Highland County Common Pleas Courtroom, full of friends, family, elected officials, court employees and law enforcement personnel. 

Highland County Common Pleas Court Judge Rocky Coss introduced Collins, who was appointed to the office by the Central Committee of the Highland County Republican Party on June 15. Former Prosecutor Jim Grandey retired from the office in May.  

Coss said that Collins being sworn into office was an "auspicious occasion, not just because she is the first female prosecutor in Highland County, but she represents the next generation. We're proud to have her take on this responsibility." 

Highland County Common Pleas Juvenile and Probate Court Judge Kevin Greer Administered the oath of office to Collins, while the Bible was held by her husband, Josh. 

Greer said that Collins has had more than 3,200 cases go through juvenile court in the last five years, and was "able to protect 335 juveniles."

He commended her work in juvenile court, and said that he is glad to hear that she will still represent the state in cases in his court, even though most of her time will now be spent in the general court. 

Collins has several attributes, Greer said, that will serve her well in the role of prosecuting attorney, including her preparedness, fear of failure and adherence to the code of ethics. 

"When you are prepared, it makes our job easier," Greer said. "As most successful people are, you have a fear of failure. I know it drives me every day."

Greer said that it was no secret that Collins was a "sore loser," which was positive because, "winning is important. If it wasn't, we wouldn't keep score."

Additionally, Collins, he said, closely follows the code of ethics, "and whenever you have had a question, you've asked me and we've discussed it.

"If you continue to adhere to these three qualities," Greer said, her time as prosecutor will be the to benefit of the people of Highland County. 

"It has been a privilege to watch you grow and hopefully will continue to grow," Greer said. 

Collins thanked her family for their support, the court staff and staff at the prosecutor's office, county law enforcement, and "Mr. Grandey for giving me the opportunity to serve Highland County. Judge Greer spoke about my being prepared, but that is only because he would accept nothing less. Judge Coss, because he expects everything Judge Greer demands and more, and it honestly makes us better attorneys. 

"I look forward to continuing to serve Highland County," Collins said. "I am passionate about this job, and not just through 2013. I will continue to serve through 2013 and on as Highland County Prosecutor."