LA County Judge Robert Draper Removed for Willful Misconduct
California judicial commission orders removal of judge for racial, sexual, and ethical violations.
1Commission Orders Judicial Removal
The California Commission on Judicial Performance officially ordered the removal of Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Robert Draper. This decision follows an extensive 87-page report detailing numerous counts of willful and prejudicial misconduct. The commission concluded that Draper consistently failed to uphold the ethical standards required for his judicial office.
2Pattern of Inappropriate Conduct
Draper, aged 84, faced charges involving racial and sexual comments made during legal proceedings. During a February 2023 sexual harassment case, he engaged in rambling, irrelevant discourses regarding race relations and Black football players. The commission determined these actions were gratuitous and brought significant disrepute to the administration of justice.
3Ethical Breaches in Chambers
The investigation highlighted inappropriate comments directed at female attorneys, including vulgar remarks about secretarial staff. Furthermore, Draper sent emails to colleagues and commission staff containing confidential juvenile dependency records and photographs of naked minors. He also distributed an email featuring an image of himself taken from behind while he was unclothed.
4Willful Misconduct and Recusal
A critical finding of willful misconduct involved Draper presiding over his own disqualification hearing after he had already recused himself from a case in March 2023. He lacked the legal authority to make further rulings, yet he threatened attorneys who sought his removal, demonstrating a clear disregard for established judicial procedural rules.
5Lack of Candor and Remorse
The commission noted that Draper’s misconduct was exacerbated by his refusal to accept responsibility. During the six-day evidentiary hearing, his testimony revealed a lack of candor and insight regarding the impact of his behavior on others. He maintained that the charges were taken out of context, despite the overwhelming evidence presented.
6Judicial Career and Background
Governor Jerry Brown first appointed Robert Draper to the bench in 2012. He subsequently served two six-year terms before losing his third reelection bid this past June. His defeat followed a 'not qualified' rating issued by the Los Angeles County Bar Association, which signaled growing concerns regarding his fitness for the position.
7Procedural Violations and Findings
The commission documented nine instances of willful misconduct, eight instances of prejudicial misconduct, and one instance of improper action. These findings were based on a thorough six-day evidentiary hearing conducted earlier this year. The commission emphasized that his actions reflected either a fundamental lack of ethical familiarity or a refusal to conform.
8Implications for Judicial Integrity
The removal of Judge Draper serves as a stern reminder of the strict ethical standards governing the judiciary. By removing a judge who failed to uphold these precepts, the commission aims to restore public trust in the Los Angeles court system. This case underscores the necessity of accountability for those in power.
Original article: Courthouse News — LA County Judge Robert Draper Removed for Willful Misconduct