A trio of judges and pornographic material

A trio of judges have been removed from service as a function of their viewing pornographic material on office computers. A fourth judge resigned voluntarily.

 

It's seen as both humiliating for the profession and the individuals themselves. The naming of the four is also seen as deeply damaging to their reputations and potentially has implications for cases they've previously been involved with. 

 

The instances came to light as a function of the work of the Judicial Conduct Investigations Office which found there had been "inexcusable misuse" of the IT systems.

 

The pornographic material did not include images of children or other illegal content. Nor were the judges exchanging images or linked in any way. The JCIO made no comment as to how the instances were uncovered.

 

Whilst the viewing of pornography is not illegal it was thought to undermine the stature of the legal profession. Especially as office equipment was involved. 

 

The suggestion is that the material was viewed in private rooms behind the court. 

 

One of the judges commented, "I am aware of the statement ... by the Judicial Conduct Investigations Office... I do not wish to comment save to say that for some years before, and during, the period covered by the conduct which formed the subject of the complaint laid against me I was suffering from severe and undiagnosed depression".

 

"I request that the privacy of my family and myself be respected so that we are allowed to continue with our lives." 

 

If you are facing a criminal investigation, across a range of matters, please contact our legal team via 01332 370 473.

 

 

The Johnson Partnership

Crime Solicitors