COLDWATER, MI (WTVB) – We now have a little more insight into what prompted now former Cass County Prosecutor Victor Fitz to resign before being appointed interim prosecutor in Branch County.
Wednesday Fitz held departing press conference in Cassopolis and publicly called out Cass County leadership, labeling the administration “arrogant” and toxic just as he transitions into his new role as the interim Branch County Prosecuting Attorney.
Fitz, who served as Cass County’s top prosecutor for 23 years, says by June 1, all five assistant prosecutors in his now former office will have resigned, leaving the department completely vacant. He explicitly blamed Cass County commissioners and administrators for ignoring a national attorney shortage and rejecting a modest $10,000 pay-raise proposal that could have retained his entire staff, claiming local leaders failed to prioritize public safety.
In response, the Cass County Board of Commissioners released a statement defending their record, noting they had previously approved multiple support measures, including a comprehensive wage study, but ultimately declined further funding requests.
Meanwhile, Fitz has been officially sworn into his new position in Coldwater, where he was appointed by the Branch County Circuit Court to ensure operational stability following the elevation of former prosecutor Zachary Stempien to the bench. While Fitz brings over 40 years of legal experience to Branch County, state law prevents him from running for the permanent seat in November, making his current tenure transition period.
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