Judge Faces Ethics Charges

Ethics charges have been filed against a Tennessee juvenile court judge.

One count alleges that the judge testified before a legislative body and engaged in fundraising in favor of a Citizen’s Heritage Display in the courthouse lobby of the Hawkins County Justice Center. Another count alleges that the judge was held in contempt by the Court of Criminal appeals for his handling of a client’s matter. A third count alleges that the judge failed to respond to the complaint in writing.

TriCities.com has this quote from the judge:

“The Court of Judiciary and I disagree over what is an appropriate role for me to have in the Foundations of American Law and Government Display project for Hawkins County.  Specifically, the Court of Judiciary has questioned whether I should have answered a question posed to me by a member of the Hawkins County Commission during a commission meeting last year.  Although the Court of Judiciary and I may disagree over what is an appropriate role, as a member of the judiciary I do look forward to resolving this issue with them.

Regardless of what role the Court of Judiciary ultimately decides is appropriate for me to have in the Foundations Display, I am proud of our community and it’s interest in seeing the Display made, and I am proud to be a part of it.”

The Rogersville Review reports on a recently-filed federal lawsut against the judge.

The judge’s campaign web site is linked here. (Mike Frisch)