On Thursday, October 3, 2024, ClickOrlando.com reported that Orange-Osceola Circuit Court Judge Jeff Ashton is facing formal charges for inappropriate conduct in the courtroom, according to the Florida Judicial Qualifications Commission (JQC). The commission has determined there is probable cause to pursue disciplinary action against Ashton, highlighting concerns about his behavior during court proceedings.
The JQC’s findings indicate that Judge Ashton has repeatedly yelled at attorneys and displayed behavior that may suggest bias against certain parties involved in cases. The commission noted that Ashton’s conduct raised significant questions regarding his suitability for judicial office. Specific allegations include shouting at lawyers during hearings, making inappropriate remarks, and exhibiting facial expressions that appeared to indicate partiality, particularly when he disagreed with an attorney’s courtroom demeanor.
Reports from the JQC describe instances where Judge Ashton’s loud comments could be heard over a white noise machine intended to mask conversations during sidebar discussions. The commission documented several occurrences where Ashton’s outbursts created a disruptive environment in the courtroom.
In one notable case, an attorney requested that Ashton recuse himself from a matter, claiming that the judge’s behavior indicated a bias against the legal representative. Ashton declined to step down from the case, a decision that was later overturned by an appeals court, further underscoring the concerns raised about his impartiality.
This is not the first time Judge Ashton has faced scrutiny for his courtroom demeanor. The JQC has previously addressed complaints regarding his interactions with attorneys and parties he perceived as unprofessional. The commission pointed out that his actions violate multiple provisions of the Code of Judicial Conduct, which emphasizes the importance of maintaining the integrity and independence of the judiciary, as well as avoiding any appearance of impropriety or bias.
As part of the ongoing disciplinary process, Ashton has 20 days to submit a written response to the charges. Following this, the investigative panel will convene to determine the appropriate disciplinary measures to recommend. The panel may also request a formal evidentiary hearing to gather more information, which would lead to a “Findings of Fact and Recommendation of Discipline.”
Ultimately, any recommendations made by the investigative panel will be submitted to the Florida Supreme Court, which will have the authority to accept or reject the proposed actions and render a final decision regarding Judge Ashton’s conduct.
Judge Ashton, who was first elected to his position as a circuit judge in 2018, has served in various capacities, including the domestic violence division and the civil court division. He transitioned back to the domestic violence division in April 2024. Prior to his judicial career, Ashton was a state attorney and gained notoriety for his role as the prosecutor in the high-profile Casey Anthony trial.
Ashton is currently campaigning for reelection in a runoff against challenger Alicia Peyton, scheduled for November 2024. The outcome of the disciplinary proceedings could have implications for his judicial career and ongoing election efforts.
Source: ClickOrlando.com
