Judge Mark Kerenyi

Mark Kerenyi, a Washington County Court of Common Pleas judge, will retire effective Feb. 28, ending more than 32 years of public service in Washington County and the U.S. Marine Corps.

Kerenyi has served nine years on the Common Pleas bench, presiding over criminal and civil cases. During his tenure, he established the COMPASS Drug Court program, a specialty court focused on treatment and rehabilitation for individuals with substance use disorders.

Judge John Halliday will assume responsibility for the COMPASS Drug Court docket, according to the court.

Before joining the Common Pleas Court, Kerenyi served 12 years as a Washington County Juvenile Court magistrate. He previously spent six years as an assistant prosecuting attorney for Washington County.

Prior to his legal career, Kerenyi served more than four years on active duty in the U.S. Marine Corps.

“It has been an extraordinary honor to serve the people of Washington County,” Kerenyi said in a statement. “I am deeply grateful for the trust placed in me and proud of the work accomplished alongside so many dedicated professionals in our justice system.”

Under Ohio law, the governor will appoint a successor to fill the Common Pleas Court seat until the next general election in November, when voters will elect a judge to serve the remainder of the unexpired term. Until then, a visiting judge will be assigned by the Ohio Supreme Court to ensure continuity of court operations.

In retirement, Kerenyi said he plans to spend time with his wife, Ann, and travel. He said he intends to document his travels on a YouTube channel, “Gavel2Gravel ADV.”