On Monday, July 8, 2024, the Florida Judicial Qualifications Commission released a report recommending discipline for Seminole County Circuit Judge Wayne Culver for inappropriate behavior in the courtroom.

The case is entitled “In the Matter of Wayne Culver,” with case no. SC-22-0846.

The JQC is an agency tasked with investigating complaints of judicial misconduct against judges in Florida. In their latest report, they suggest that Judge Culver be suspended from the bench for 60 days without pay and receive a public reprimand for his actions. He was also advised to continue attending anger management courses.

This is not the first time Judge Culver has faced allegations of misconduct resulting from outbursts in court. In early 2022, two separate incidents occurred where Culver raised his voice and swore in front of those present. A video surfaced of an interaction where Culver told a man in the courtroom to “shut up and sit down.” He also improperly held someone in contempt of court during a hearing.

This prompted a notice of charges from the JQC in June 2022. However, the Supreme Court of Florida initially rejected a suspension at that time and ordered more proceedings. In April, a formal hearing was held, where Judge Culver admitted fault. He acknowledged his language was inappropriate and shocked himself. Culver also shared that he instantly regretted his behavior once leaving the bench.

As part of the latest recommendation from the JQC, Culver’s admission of wrongdoing and remedial efforts were noted. He has voluntarily participated in anger management training and counseling since 2022. However, the committee still believed consequences were warranted due to the judge using profanity in front of the public. They argued this behavior discredited the integrity of the judicial system.

The case will again go before the Florida Supreme Court, who have the authority to finalize any punishment for Judge Culver. As the highest court in the state, they can accept, reject, or modify the recent sanctions proposed by the JQC.

Judge Culver’s courtroom is located at 301 N Park Ave, Sanford, FL 32771, and can be reached at (407) 665-4132.

A copy of the original filing can be found here.