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Schwarzenegger Appoints Deputy A.G. Matthew CateAs State’s Inspector General
By a MetNews Staff Writer
Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger yesterday announced the appointment of Supervising Deputy Attorney General Matthew Cate as California’s Inspector General. The appointment is subject to Senate confirmation.
Cate’s appointment to the head of the Office of the Inspector General—which is responsible for investigating allegations of misconduct on the part of state correctional agencies—comes as the Department of Corrections is accused of systematic, widespread corruption. Both Schwarzenegger and Cate alluded to the policy crisis in a statement announcing the appointment.
“I am confident that Matt’s experience as a prosecutor and his integrity will be a tremendous asset to this important agency at this critical time,” Schwarzenegger said. “He shares my commitment to bringing truth and justice to California’s correctional system while maintaining the highest standard of public safety.”
Cate commented:
“I am committed to ensuring a system of accountability and integrity where prisoners, guards and the public can trust the law is followed and public safety is top priority.”
Cate began his public service as deputy district attorney for Sacramento County from 1994-1996. He has served as a California supervising deputy attorney general since 1996, managing political corruption cases—including the investigation of former Insurance Commissioner Charles Quackenbush—providing counsel to grand juries and advising local law enforcement concerning public corruption.
The 37-year-old Elk Grove resident, a Republican, earned his law degree from the University of Oregon and worked as an associate attorney with the Sacramento firm of Downey, Brand, Seymour & Rowher before joining the Sacramento County District Attorney’s office.
Copyright 2004, Metropolitan News Company