On Wednesday, April 30, 2025, the Kentucky Judicial Conduct Commission suspended Circuit Court Judge Howard Keith Hall from his judicial duties. This action follows an indictment filed against him by the United States in the Eastern District of Kentucky, where he faces three felony charges related to alleged misconduct during his tenure as County Attorney from 2010 to 2020.
The Commission’s decision, effective April 18, 2025, was made under the authority granted by SCR 4.020(1)(a)(ii), allowing for the temporary suspension of judges facing felony charges. The indictment, filed on April 17, 2025, accuses Hall of engaging in a fraudulent scheme to obtain money through false pretenses, carrying potential penalties of up to 20 years in prison for some counts.
As part of the suspension, Judge Hall is prohibited from utilizing his judicial office, accessing the Pike County Judicial Center, or using any judicial resources. He must also surrender his courthouse access pass and any related credentials to court security during the suspension period.
The Commission’s decision was unanimous, with a quorum present at the meeting.
Judge Hall, who has been licensed to practice law in Kentucky since 1988, has served as a Circuit Court Judge in the 35th Judicial Circuit, which includes Pike County, since January 1, 2021. His current address is listed as 175 Main Street, Pikeville, Kentucky.
A copy of the original filing can be found here.
