Judicial court tells Pennsylvania justice it may suspend him
The court that rules on cases of judicial misconduct is telling a Pennsylvania Supreme Court justice he faces possible suspension over lewd and offensive emails he traded with lawyers and others.
The Court of Judicial Discipline on Thursday issued an order that gives Justice Michael Eakin a chance to respond before it decides whether to remove him from the bench.
A hearing on the possible suspension is Dec. 21 in Easton.
The order comes two days after the Judicial Conduct Board, which investigates and prosecutes judges, charged him with violating judicial and constitutional ethical rules.
The board’s complaint said Eakin’s actions appeared to be improper, he didn’t respect the court’s nondiscrimination policy and he detracted from the dignity of his office.
Messages asking Eakin for comment were not immediately returned.
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