The Coconino County Attorney’s Office announced its Ethel branch on February 21 as the latest deputy citizen county prosecutor.

Branch was former Navajo Countries Attorney General until he was removed from the Post by the Navajo Countries Council in December 2024. Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren has been announced in an independent investigation that he is not guilty of committing sexual harassment against Vice President Richelle Montoya.

“We are thrilled to have this incredible civil servant and experienced supporters join our team,” Coconino County Attorney Ammon Barker said in a public Facebook post.

Barker highlighted his qualifications for the role of Branch, noting that he was born and raised in Coconino County (Loop, Arizona).

As Navajo Attorney General, covering two presidential terms, the branches will deal with large-scale wastewater runoffs, help preserve national monuments, and ensure a settlement of important water rights, including tribal and federal Barker said he oversaw important legal work, including the matters.