A crowd gathered outside the Hall of Justice in downtown San Diego Friday as District Attorney Bonnie Dumanis ended her nearly 15-year tenure.
San Diego County Sheriff’s deputies stood at attention as part of an official law enforcement “Walk Out” ceremony.
Meanwhile, jazz music played and protesters held a New Orleans-style funeral with handwritten signs saying “Goodbye Bonnie, Hello Justice” and “Dumexit.”
“We are losing a legend. Bonnie was ahead of her time,” said Chief Deputy with the District Attorney’s Office Victor Nunez.
Dumanis announced her plan to resign her position three months ago saying she wanted to explore the possibility of running for a Board of Supervisors seat.
At the time, the former district attorney confirmed to NBC 7 that she has been dealing with some health issues but said she was in good health.
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"A lot of people have asked me about my health," Dumanis said. "I did have a bout of breast cancer that was early detected. I had some radiation, had it removed and I am a cancer survivor, cancer free. I'm getting checked up regularly and I'm ready for a lot more years."
She affirmed that her battle with cancer did not play a role in her resignation.
"I'm not leaving because of that," Dumanis added. "I'm leaving because I want to explore other options, including the Board of Supervisors, and I don't want to distract from the important work the DA's office."
Dumanis led the DA's office for 14 years and attempted a run for San Diego mayor. She has also served as a municipal court judge and a superior court judge.
