Court system appoints Kay-Ann Porter Campbell as new Inspector General

September 6, 2023 Robert Abruzzese

Kay-Ann Porter Campbell, newly appointed Director of the court system’s Office of the Inspector General, who has championed unbiased justice in New York's court system for over two decades. Photo courtesy of the Office of Court Administration

Share this:

The state’s judiciary underwent a significant shift this week as Chief Administrative Judge Joseph A. Zayas announced the appointment of Kay-Ann Porter Campbell as the Director of the court system’s Office of the Inspector General (OIG).

Responsible for probing allegations of misconduct, fraud, and conflicts of interest within the court system, the OIG plays a pivotal role in upholding the integrity of New York’s justice system. Under Porter Campbell’s leadership, the OIG will also manage the Office of the Managing Inspector General for Bias Matters, reinforcing the judiciary’s commitment to eliminate bias within court proceedings. The OIG’s duties extend to overseeing fiduciary appointments in cases involving guardianship, foreclosure and other areas.

For over two decades, Porter Campbell has been at the forefront of the battle against bias in the court system. As the OIG’s Managing Inspector General for Bias Matters, she has spearheaded numerous initiatives to ensure a just, inclusive environment for all involved in the judicial process.

In lauding her appointment, Chief Administrative Judge Zayas stated, “Kay-Ann Porter Campbell’s unwavering commitment to rooting out bias is a testament to her exceptional character and dedication. I am confident she will further enhance the New York State courts’ reputation for fairness and transparency.”

Echoing these sentiments, First Deputy Chief Administrative Judge Norman St. George extolled her “wealth of expertise and knowledge,” highlighting her dedication and investigative acumen. “Her appointment fortifies our mission to foster public trust and confidence in our courts,” he remarked.

Throughout her tenure, Porter Campbell has consistently advocated for unbiased justice. Deputy Chief Administrative Judge for Justice Initiatives Edwina G. Mendelson-Richardson said, “Her leadership of our anti-bias office has been invaluable in our pursuit of a court system that embodies New York State’s rich diversity.”

Before joining the OIG, Porter Campbell served as an attorney for the Metropolitan Transit Authority-New York City Transit. Her legal journey began at the Law Office of Dennis J. Pottinger in Queens, dealing with an array of civil and family law issues. She is an alumna of Albany Law School of Union University.

Judge Zayas expressed gratitude to Carol Hamm, the Acting Inspector General, for her interim leadership following the retirement of Sherrill Spatz, the former long-serving Inspector General. Hamm will continue to serve as Deputy Inspector General.