CHARLESTON, S.C. - Deputy prosecutor Robby Robbins has been appointed to complete the remaining term of retiring 1st Circuit Solicitor Walter Bailey, who resigned this week.

Gov. Mark Sanford appointed Robbins on Friday to replace Bailey as chief prosecutor for the circuit, which covers Dorchester, Orangeburg and Calhoun counties. His appointment runs through December, but Robbins already is planning to run for election to the office next fall.

Robbins, a 41-year-old Summerville resident, served as Bailey's second-in-command and has prosecuted hundreds of cases since leaving private practice in 1997 to join the solicitor's office.

"I am extremely honored that the governor would have the confidence in me to appoint me," Robbins said. "I am humbled to be following behind a man who I think of as the finest solicitor this circuit has ever had."

Bailey announced Monday that he was stepping down from the office he has held for the past 11 years. He said he became eligible for full retirement benefits, and it didn't make economic sense for him to stay.

Bailey said he supported Robbins' appointment.

"I think he's the most qualified person," Bailey said. "He benefits politically, but the office benefits by having the most qualified person assume it."

Sanford spokesman Will Folks said Robbins was chosen for the post because of his experience and the fact that he had Bailey's personal recommendation for the job.

Robbins, a married father of two, graduated from law school at the University of South Carolina in 1987. That same year, Robbins joined with attorney James Bell in a general law practice in St. George, handling civil and criminal cases. He remained partners with Bell for a decade before deciding to become a prosecutor.

"I like being on the prosecuting side of crime," he said. "I just didn't feel comfortable on the other side."

For four years, Robbins served as the deputy solicitor responsible for managing Dorchester County's caseload. In 2001, he became deputy solicitor for the entire circuit.

Information from: The Post And Courier