Judicial watchdog seeks DeLaughter’s suspension
The state Commission on Judicial Performance found “probable cause” to start an inquiry into allegations of judicial misconduct.
“Due to the serious nature of the judicial misconduct,” wrote Brant Brantley, executive director of the commission, the commission voted to ask the high court for an interim suspension for the judge.
The vote to make this request was unanimous, 6-0, Brantley wrote.
On Jan. 11, Booneville lawyer Joey Langston pleaded guilty to getting $3 million from Scruggs in a “reverse contingency fee” arrangement in scheming to get DeLaughter to rule in favor of Scruggs, who was being sued by a former law partner over attorneys’ fees.
Langston said he split the money with former State Auditor Steve Patterson and one-time Hinds County District Attorney Ed Peters, who had been DeLaughter’s mentor.
Rather than offer DeLaughter money, Langston said the judge was promised consideration for a federal judgeship.
Clarion Ledger
3/19/8
Magnolia Tribune
