Chester County has appointed Susanna DeWese as its new chief public defender. DeWese, who currently serves as first assistant public defender, will assume her new position on Aug. 5, when current Chief Public Defender Nathan Schenker retires.

DeWese has worked in the Public Defender's Office for 23 years, the last six as first assistant public defender. Her duties in her most recent role included helping to oversee daily operations, staff supervision, budgeting, grant administration, training, and strategic planning.

She is a graduate of Rosemont College and received her law degree from Villanova University School of Law. DeWese is a resident of the Borough of West Chester.