On Thursday, November 7, 2024, the Jacksonville Florida Times-Union reported that Putnam County Judge Anne Marie Gennusa successfully retained her position in a closely contested election, despite ongoing scrutiny from a state commission regarding her conduct in court. Gennusa defeated her opponent, Alex Sharp, by a narrow margin, securing 226 more votes, which equated to less than one percentage point of the total.

The election results followed a complaint filed against Gennusa by Florida’s Judicial Qualifications Commission, which alleged that she had improperly used her authority to hold individuals in contempt of court. These charges suggested that Gennusa’s actions demonstrated a lack of the patience and dignity expected of judges as outlined in the state’s code of judicial conduct.

In response to the allegations, Gennusa’s attorney, Warren Lindsey, submitted a formal answer to the commission. He argued that the judge’s contempt findings were not driven by anger or frustration and highlighted her growth in the role since her appointment by Governor Ron DeSantis in April 2023. Lindsey asserted that Gennusa has gained experience and knowledge that have contributed to her maturation as a judge.

The commission’s complaint detailed three instances in which Gennusa declared individuals in contempt, with the most recent occurring in January. Lindsey noted that since those instances, Gennusa has not issued further contempt findings. He emphasized that she has recognized the importance of using contempt powers sparingly, a lesson reinforced through required training and feedback from her peers.

Supporting her case, Lindsey included a letter from Chief Circuit Judge Leah R. Case, who oversees the 7th Judicial Circuit, which encompasses Putnam County. In her letter, Case expressed confidence that Gennusa has learned from past experiences and is unlikely to repeat them.

Following the election results, a post on Gennusa’s campaign Facebook page celebrated her victory, thanking the residents of Putnam County for their support.

 

 

Source: Jacksonville Florida Times-Union