Mercer County Prosecuting Attorney Brian K. Cochran has announced his candidacy for Circuit Court Judge in the May 2026 election, following the upcoming retirement of Judge William J. Sadler at the end of 2025. Cochran said he made the announcement with Sadler’s permission.
Cochran, a Republican and longtime Mercer County resident, highlighted more than 34 years of combined service in law enforcement and legal practice. His career includes roles as a city police officer, deputy sheriff, state trooper, city attorney, and prosecuting attorney—first elected in 2020 and re-elected in 2024.
“I’ve always believed that our job as prosecutors is to pursue justice, not just convictions,” Cochran said, emphasizing fairness and impartiality as guiding principles he would bring to the bench.
Cochran has applied for appointment to the upcoming judicial vacancy through the West Virginia Judicial Vacancy Advisory Commission but stressed the importance of winning the election.
He noted his strong community ties, saying his family has lived in Mercer County for decades, and he praised the local schools and community values. Cochran and his wife, Connie, a licensed psychologist, have three children who have all graduated from Princeton Senior High School.
“I’m ready and I am the most experienced and qualified person to be your next Circuit Court Judge,” Cochran said, asking voters for their continued support.