Brian N. Bauersfeld, a Weedsport native, was appointed this week as assistant district attorney for Cayuga County.

His duties include prosecution of all criminal offenses in the county, including traffic offenses, violations, misdemeanors and felonies. He will appear before all levels and courts in this county and the Appellate Division in Rochester.

“I'm looking forward to prosecuting cases,” Bauersfeld said. “I did some defense work and am looking forward to being on the other side.”

“The biggest issue with prosecution is the challenge,” Bauersfeld said. “A defendant doesn't have the responsibility to present a defense, but all of the weight falls on the prosecution to prove guilt.”

As for the possibility of sending an innocent man to jail, Bauersfeld said, “That's always a concern, but if you do your job and follow the rules to the best of your ability, hopefully that won't happen.”

“At the moment, I have entrusted Brian with the responsibility to prosecute the important public assistance fraud cases in Cayuga County,” Budelmann said in a news release. “In this regard, he may appear before the grand jury from time to time and handle felony files.”

“I am delighted to have Brian on board and helping us protect our community,” he said. “Brian is not only a respected and well liked member of our local Bar, but he is a bright, dedicated professional. I am expecting great things from Brian.”

Bauersfeld earned his Juris Doctorate from Syracuse University's College of Law in 2004, with an undergraduate degree from the University of Notre Dame in 2000.

He ran his own office in Auburn before joining the DA's office. Prior to that, he was an associate with a firm located in Oneida County.

He plans to reside in Weedsport with his wife, Lisa, also a Weedsport native.