County Attorney Velardi could be heading to AG's Office

Strafford County Attorney Tom Velardi (Courtesy photo)

DOVER -- Deputy County Attorney Emily Garod could be the next Strafford County Attorney if Tom Velardi is appointed by the governor's Executive Council on Wednesday to be the new director of the Public Protection Division at the AG's office.

Velardi, who has worked at the county attorneys office for more than 20 years, could begin his new job as early as October if he gets the OK from the Executive Council.

The Public Protection Division oversees homicide cases, the public integrity unit, and Medicare fraud.

If Velardi gets the OK, a special election would be held in September by the Stafford County delegation to New Hampshire's House of Representatives.

If confirmed, Velardi will begin his new job Oct. 6 for a term ending Dec. 29, 2026. He would be paid a $125,000 annual salary, according to a letter from Attorney General John Formella to Gov. Chris Sununu and the Executive Council.