On Wednesday, May 14, 2025, the Florida Supreme Court suspended Broward County Judge Gary M. Farmer Jr. without pay, effective 11:59 p.m. on Monday, May 19, 2025, pending the outcome of ethics proceedings initiated by the Florida Judicial Qualifications Commission (JQC).
The suspension follows allegations of inappropriate courtroom remarks and absenteeism, as outlined in JQC cases 2024-900 and 2025-125. The court directed the Seventeenth Judicial Circuit’s Court Administrator to submit a personnel action request to the Office of State Courts Administrators and urged the JQC to conduct remaining proceedings swiftly while adhering to its rules and the judge’s procedural rights.
Farmer, in an amended response filed on May 8, 2025, addressed the JQC’s charges. He admitted to making certain courtroom comments and jokes, describing them as lighthearted attempts to reduce tension and show empathy toward criminal defendants. He acknowledged that some remarks, particularly those considered “racy,” were inappropriate and expressed regret, noting he had apologized during a probable cause hearing and in his filing. Farmer clarified that one incident involving a discussion about a television show occurred because he was unaware his microphone was active. He stated he has avoided such humor since the initial complaint was reported to the Chief Judge.
Regarding absenteeism allegations, Farmer acknowledged working from home on multiple occasions but maintained he was informed this was allowed. He contested the JQC’s use of swipe card records to monitor his presence, explaining that in the criminal wing of the courthouse, only two swipes were needed to enter, compared to six in other sections. He noted that judges often entered together, taking turns swiping cards. Farmer also explained that his Friday special set hearings, which involved complex motions, were frequently canceled, leaving him without scheduled court appearances. During these times, he worked on judicial orders or reviewed legal materials.
Farmer denied allegations of bias or improper conduct, arguing that some comments were misinterpreted or lacked context due to the complex histories of the cases involved. He asserted that certain issues raised by the JQC were better suited for appellate review than disciplinary action. He maintained that his rulings followed legal standards, despite any personal views he held from his prior role as a legislator.
In JQC case 2025-125, Farmer reiterated that his courtroom jokes aimed to ease defendants’ stress. He corrected the JQC’s record in one instance, confirming a defendant’s name as Jaques Strapp. He also addressed specific cases, including one involving a defendant named Mallard, who faced challenges due to homelessness and probation violations. Farmer explained that systemic issues, such as limited check-in options for homeless individuals, affected her treatment. In another case involving a defendant named Kyhle, he noted complexities due to the defendant’s health issues and uncooperative state witnesses. Farmer also responded to concerns about remarks in a separate case, attributing them to frustration with the state’s repeated delays and noncompliance with court orders.
Farmer requested discovery materials, including transcripts and recordings, to support his defense and asked that the trial be held in Broward County within the Seventeenth Judicial Circuit, as per JQC rules.
A copy of the original filing can be found here.
