The City of Gautier Announces Judicial Appointments

Gautier, Mississippi; December 18, 2024 – The Gautier City Council has appointed Judge NeShondria “Shon” Ellerby as Municipal Judge and Judge Kaleigh Nelson as Judge Pro Tempore.

Judge Ellerby succeeds Amy Lassitter St. Pe, who has served as Municipal Judge since 2021.

The appointments were made after a review of many resumes and a limited round of interviews.

Judge Ellerby brings a wealth of legal experience to the bench. She served as Assistant District Attorney for the Nineteenth District—covering Jackson, George, and Greene Counties—from 2014 to 2022. She has also been the Municipal Judge for the City of Moss Point since January 2023 and previously served Moss Point as City Prosecutor in 2014. In addition to her judicial roles, she owns and operates Ellerby Law LLC, providing her with years of experience as an attorney in various legal matters.

“I am excited to serve the great City of Gautier and its citizens as the next Municipal Court Judge,” said Judge Ellerby. “I am grateful to Mayor Vaughan and the members of City Council for trusting me in this new role.”

Mayor Casey Vaughan expressed confidence in Judge Ellerby’s appointment, stating, “Judge Ellerby’s extensive background and dedication to justice make her an excellent choice to serve Gautier. We are fortunate to have someone of her caliber leading our Municipal Court.”

Mayor Vaughan also extended gratitude to Judge Amy Lassitter St. Pe, saying, “We are grateful for her leadership and commitment to the community, and we wish her the best in her future endeavors.”

In addition to Judge Ellerby’s appointment, Judge Kaleigh Nelson has been named Judge Pro Tempore. Judge Nelson played a pivotal role in supporting the Municipal Court by assisting Judge St. Pe during her campaign.

“Her support was invaluable, and her dedication makes her an excellent choice as Judge Pro Tempore,” said Mayor Vaughan. “I am honored to continue in the role of Judge Pro Tempore for the City of Gautier,” said Judge Nelson. “I appreciate Mayor Vaughan and the City Council for the reappointment, and I look forward to continuing to serve the citizens of Gautier.”