Disciplinary Cases Involving Bias
A Pennsylvania Magisterial District Judge was removed from office for sexually harassing a female employee. The former Judge repeatedly made sexually charged statements to his female staff members. He also shared photos of nude females with them, and described in graphic detail child pornography photographs from a proceeding before him, despite the staff members' protests. In re Berkheimer, 877 A.2d 579 (Pa. Ct. Jud. Disc. 2005).
A Judge of the Superior Court of the State of New York was suspended for 60 days without pay for sexually harassing a female clerk. The Judge made offensive remarks of a sexual nature to the female law clerk, and also had unwanted physical contact with the clerk on more than one occasion. In re Seaman, 133 N.J. 67, 627 A.2d 106 (1993).
The Judicial Conduct Board filed a formal complaint against a District Justice, and an agreement as to findings of fact and conclusions of law was submitted. Following trial, the Court of Judicial Discipline found that the Judicial Conduct Board had proven by clear and convincing evidence that the District Justice performed duties while under the influence of alcohol, had improper contact with a female clerk in his office, and used expletives in front of co-workers. Sanctions imposed included a six-month suspension without pay, and a requirement that the District Justice enter into a sobriety-monitoring contract. When he refused to comply with the latter, he was removed permanently from judicial office. In re: District Justice Bradford Clark Timbers, No. 3 JD 95, 674 A.2d 1217 (Pa. Ct. Jud. Dis. 1996).