Flirtatious Magistrate Charged

The Ohio Disciplinary Counsel has charged a Hamilton County magistrate with misconduct in connection with his presiding over a domestic violence civil protection order in which he allegedly became personally involved. 

He allegedly met with the victim in chambers and discussed a range of matters unrelated to the pending case. They also were allegedly together in the court’s designated smoking area where he made “flirtatious” remarks about her appearance. They had lunch near the courthouse and he picked up the check.

When he then recused himself, he allegedly false claimed that his contacts were “inadvertent.” 

She contacted him by text after the recusal and asked for a formal meeting; he responding that the request sounded ominous. 

He did not respond to later texts.

He was fired.

Charges linked here. (Mike Frisch)