Three U. S.
federal judges are under investigation this week following separate allegations of misconduct in Georgia, Idaho, and Michigan. The cases have sparked debate over the judiciary's internal disciplinary system.
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In Georgia, U. S.
District Judge Eleanor Ross faces impeachment articles filed by Representative Andrew Clyde for alleged workplace sexual activity and attending a political event.
A judicial council previously issued a private reprimand over similar conduct.
“Judge Ross' deeply disturbing actions prove she is incapable of displaying integrity or showing impartiality,” Clyde said, calling for her removal.
Legal advocacy groups criticized the initial handling of the case. Aliza Shatzman of the Legal Accountability Project said the punishment was a “slap on the wrist.”
Gabe Roth of Fix the Court added, “This is a classic case of judges protecting other judges.”
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Meanwhile, Ninth Circuit Appeals Court Judge Ryan Nelson pleaded not guilty to a misdemeanor battery charge after an April parking lot altercation.
Chief Ninth Circuit Judge Mary Murguia launched an internal investigation on Monday.
“I am embarrassed by this incident,” said Curtis Smith, Nelson's lawyer, noting the judge apologized and offered compensation for damaged sunglasses.
In Michigan, U. S.
District Judge Thomas Ludington pleaded not guilty to failing to undergo required alcohol testing as part of his probation from a DUI conviction.
His lawyer, Jonathan Steffy, stated that Ludington is making every effort to comply and that tests show continued sobriety.
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Retired Judge Jeremy Fogel of the Berkeley Judicial Institute emphasized the broader impact: “The focus in all three of these cases has to be the larger reputation of the judiciary.”
