Monroe County District Attorney Sandra Doorley to Retire; Timing Raises Questions About Successor

Monroe County District Attorney Sandra Doorley announced Friday that she will retire on August 31, capping a 33-year career as one of the region’s most prominent prosecutors. The announcement comes just months after a controversial traffic stop involving Doorley sparked public scrutiny and renewed questions about accountability in law enforcement.

Monroe County DA Sandra Doorley

Doorley, 62, said in a letter to residents that the decision to step down was “bittersweet” and motivated by a desire to prioritize her family and reflect on her years of service. “Serving you has been the greatest honor of my life,” she wrote. “Even in the most difficult moments, I have given you everything I have.”

However, the timing of her retirement has drawn attention because it follows intense public backlash over her actions during an April 22 traffic stop, in which she was pulled over by a Webster police officer for speeding. Body camera footage later released to the public showed Doorley berating the officer, refusing to comply with instructions, and calling the Webster Police Chief during the stop. The incident, which critics said reflected a misuse of her office and authority, led to calls for her resignation and multiple public protests.

At a press conference days later, Doorley admitted to being "rude and unprofessional" during the stop, but said she would not resign. The Monroe County Legislature held hearings on the matter, and advocacy groups demanded disciplinary action. The controversy cast a shadow over her remaining tenure.

In the context of that controversy, her decision to retire weeks before the November election is seen by many observers as a strategic move. The early departure allows Gov. Kathy Hochul to appoint an interim district attorney—a power granted under state law when a county elected official vacates their position before the end of their term.

“The Governor thanks District Attorney Doorley for her service,” said a spokesperson for Hochul’s office. “She will evaluate next steps regarding the vacancy in due time.”

Doorley, a Republican who previously ran as a Democrat before switching parties in 2015, has long been a vocal advocate for law enforcement. Her retirement may open the door for a political shift in the DA’s office depending on who is appointed—and whether they run in the November general election.

In her farewell letter, Doorley reflected on the highlights of her career, including securing convictions in high-profile cases such as the murders of Alexandra Kogut, Charlotte Lahr, and Rochester Police Officer Anthony Mazurkiewicz. She emphasized her passion for standing beside victims and pursuing justice in the courtroom.

She also pointed to several reforms initiated under her leadership, including the establishment of the Conviction Integrity Unit, Non-Fatal Shooting Task Force, and a public-facing Measures for Justice data dashboard.

As of Friday, no interim replacement had been named. Local party leaders and potential candidates are preparing for a fast-moving election cycle in which the governor’s appointee may hold an advantage at the ballot box.

Doorley concluded her message by thanking law enforcement, her staff, and her family.

“I leave this office with a full heart,” she wrote, “and with the hope that my service made a difference.”