Detroit-area Judge Sylvia James booted from office

INKSTER (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. Published: Thu, Aug 2, 2012