PRINCETON, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Mercer County Prosecuting Attorney Brian K. Cochran has announced his candidacy for Circuit Court Judge in the May 2026 election, a seat that will become vacant with the retirement of Judge William J. Sadler at the end of 2025.

Cochran said he made the announcement with Judge Sadler’s permission.

Judge Sadler’s retirement marks the end of what Cochran described as an influential tenure.

“I really hate that Judge Sadler is retiring because he has selflessly served our community for many, many years with distinction and is really a great man and a great judge,” Cochran said.

He noted Sadler’s background as a former elected prosecutor, adding, “He’s been a mentor and guide for me and his leadership, integrity, and service to others will be sorely missed. But th

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