Kern County Public Defender Art Titus died yesterday evening after a long illness, the County Administrative Office reported. Titus spent 31 years as an attorney in the Public Defender's Office and had led the Office since 2009. The Public Defender provides legal representation to indigent criminal defendants in Kern County Superior Court cases.

Chief Assistant Public Defender Konrad Moore issued this statement in announcing Titus' death:

"Art was a great lawyer, and an even better human being. He devoted his life to the service of people in need, and was tremendously proud of the office and the incredible people who work here. For over 30 years in the Kern County Public Defender's office, Art battled for the underdog. The office he leaves is the best in the state, and we will miss him dearly."

Kern County Board of Supervisors Chairman Zack Scrivner said, "Kern County Supervisors were deeply saddened to learn of Mr. Titus' death. He dedicated his career to ensuring that those who stand accused before the courts receive proper legal representation, and his contributions to criminal justice stand as a legacy for those who follow him."