Detroit-area Judge Sylvia James booted from office by MSC
INKSTER, Mich. (AP) — The Michigan Supreme Court took the extraordinary step of removing a Detroit-area judge from office Tuesday for mishandling public money, the second judge to lose a robe this year because of misconduct.
Inkster District Judge Sylvia James was accused of turning a community service fund into her own private foundation, spending money to travel and to promote herself in the Detroit suburb. The decision to remove her was unanimous.
“The cumulative effect of (James’) misconduct, coupled with its duration, nature and pervasiveness, convinces this court that she is unfit for judicial office,” Justice Marilyn Kelly said.
A message seeking comment was left for James’ attorney, Mayer Morganroth. He had argued to the justices two weeks ago that James didn’t take any court funds for personal benefit, although the investigation found that she bought plane tickets for personal use.
The investigation also found that James hired an unqualified magistrate who improperly handled arrest warrants and also hired a niece.
“Judge James’ misconduct persisted for years, permeating and infecting every corner of the 22nd District Court,” Kelly wrote.
In January, the Supreme Court sacked Jackson County Judge James Justin, who was accused of fixing tickets for himself and family.
Judge finds man not guilty by reason of insanity in slaying
JACKSON, Mich. (AP) — A judge has found that a southern Michigan man authorities say beheaded his 59-year-old neighbor is not guilty by reason of insanity in the slaying.
MLive.com reports Jackson County Circuit Judge Thomas Wilson made the ruling Wednesday following a brief bench trial for Leo Kwaske. With the ruling, Kwaske is to be placed in a mental institution.
Shirley Meeks’ body was found Oct. 15 in her Jackson apartment, about 70 miles west of Detroit. Her head also was found.
Kwaske was charged with felony murder, mutilation of a dead body and first-degree home invasion. Doctors have determined he is competent to stand trial, but was insane at the time Meeks was killed.
Kwaske told doctors, according to information presented in court, that: “She was dark voodoo, negative energy.”
Michigan Muslim Bar Association Iftar Dinner set for Aug. 15
The Michigan Muslim Bar Association will be presenting its Iftar Dinner on Wednesday, Aug. 15, from 6:30 - 10 p.m. at the Byblos Banquet Hall at 7258 Chase Road in Dearborn. Guest speaker will be State Representative Rashida H. Tlaib and proceeds will go to law school scholarships.
Individual tickets are $30 and table sponsorships are available.
For more information contact Dewnya Bazzi at 313-570-4390 or mimuslimbar@gmail.com
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