On Thursday, April 17, 2025, KSL NewsRadio reported that Utah judge William Kendall resigned amid serious allegations of sexual abuse. The resignation comes just one day after House Speaker Mike Schultz indicated that lawmakers were prepared to initiate impeachment proceedings if Kendall did not step down.
Kendall, 54, had been facing multiple charges, including forcible sexual abuse, the distribution of a controlled substance, and possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia. These charges stem from an incident that occurred on February 21, when prosecutors allege Kendall provided a “weed pen” to a woman at his home and inappropriately touched her without consent.
Following the charges, Kendall had been on administrative leave without pay. In his resignation letter addressed to Governor Spencer Cox and Chief Justice Matthew Durrant, he expressed his gratitude for his service on the Third District Court, stating it had been the greatest honor of his life. He also mentioned he would miss his time on the bench and the colleagues with whom he worked to serve the public in Utah.
House Speaker Schultz, a Republican from Hooper, expressed concern regarding the allegations against Kendall, emphasizing that the judge should have resigned sooner. He highlighted that losing public trust is a significant factor that can lead to impeachment, a sentiment echoed by the gravity of the situation.
Kendall, who was appointed as a judge in 2014, is scheduled for a court hearing on May 12.
Source: KSL NewsRadio
