On Tuesday, August 16, 2022, Tri-City Herald reported that Benton-Franklin Superior Court Judge Sam Swanberg, who had been accused of abusing his ex-wife, was found not guilty by a Franklin County District Court jury.

Swanberg went on trial last week for two misdemeanor counts of assault in the fourth degree with claims of domestic violence. The state of Washington will be required to reimburse his attorney expenses and lost income after the four-man and two-woman jury determined that he acted in self-defense.

In February 2021, the judge was accused of pushing Stephanie Barnard, his ex-wife, down so forcefully that she received a bruise, and then dragging her out of a room by her legs during an argument the following day.

Tri-City Herald reported that:

“The domestic violence allegations emerged when Swanberg’s ex-wife, Stephanie Barnard, filed a declaration of support for Salas’ request for the protection order against the judge.

When Franklin County Sheriff’s officials learned about the declaration, they began investigating Barnard’s claims. It’s important to note that Barnard did not come forward until the no-contact order with his girlfriend became public.”

Tri-City Herald stated:

“Our take is that while his behavior wasn’t a crime according to a Franklin County District Court jury, Swanberg made choices that were inappropriate for someone who sits in judgment of others, and his credibility is still shaky.”

Tri-City Herald concluded that:

“In Washington state, the Supreme Court and Superior Court judges are exempt from the state’s recall process, and Swanberg is not up for election again until 2024. That’s a long time for voters to wait to have their say. Swanberg has been acquitted of domestic violence, but his behavior doesn’t reach the high standards of appropriate judicial conduct.

Tri-Citians deserve better. We still recommend Swanberg step down.”

The Judge’s courtroom address is 7122 W Okanogan Pl, Bldg A in Kennewick and can be reached at 509-736-3071 https://www.courts.wa.gov/court_dir/?fa=court_dir.persondetail&indid=863&orgid=305

Source: Tri-City Herald

 

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