DeKalb County has a new state’s attorney.

The DeKalb County Board approved John Farrell’s appointment to DeKalb County State’s Attorney with a 14-1 vote at Wednesday’s meeting. Five board members abstained from the vote and three board members were absent from the meeting.

“When I came to DeKalb County I never imagined that this day would be here and it is here,” Farrell said after the board voted.

“It’s a true privilege to serve all of you as State’s Attorney,” he said at the County Board meeting. “I promise over the next several months I will do everything I can to gain your confidence and trust. I will fulfill my duties to the highest level of professionalism possible.”

Farrell takes over as the state’s attorney after Ron Matekaitis vacated the position in April. Matekaitis left the position after being selected to serve as a judge on the 16th Judicial Circuit, according to an April 14 Northern Star article.

Keith Foster served as the interim state’s attorney while the serach for Matekaitis’ permanent replacement was conducted.