On Wednesday, July 31, 2024, KTBS reported that Shreveport City Court Judge Sheva Sims is facing accusations of unethical conduct that could potentially lead to discipline.
According to the Judiciary Commission of Louisiana, Judge Sims had exhibited rude and abrasive behavior toward litigants and staff in her courtroom over multiple instances. Specifically, in one eviction case from 2022, it was alleged that Judge Sims was dismissive and abusive toward the petitioner before issuing a ruling that did not align with the evidence presented. Her behavior toward litigants in other cases was also described as unprofessional and lacking patience, dignity, and courtesy.
In addition, the Commission accused Judge Sims of misusing a court vehicle for personal reasons in early 2023. She allegedly utilized the vehicle, which is meant for official business only, for around three weeks. During this time, two tanks of gas were filled using fuel cards from deputy city marshals.
Judge Sims was also charged with conducting her own investigation in an eviction case by obtaining photographs and documents from the city directly. Her line of questioning during a related hearing purportedly gave the appearance that she was advocating for one of the parties involved.
Furthermore, she was accused of violating Louisiana state law on multiple occasions. This included releasing 10 individuals facing violent crimes like domestic abuse on their own recognizance. In another incident, she granted bond for a repeat DWI offender without requiring the installation of an ignition interlock device as demanded by statute.
The Commission noted that Judge Sims’ treatment of court employees had become so abrasive that some needed consoling, while others resigned or requested transfers. Previously in 2015, she was suspended for 30 days for other ethical lapses, such as the improper dismissal of criminal cases and holding a prosecutor in contempt of court without cause.
While Judge Sims denied all accusations through her attorney, the facts outlined by the Judiciary Commission portray a pattern of unprofessional behavior and violations over several years as a sitting judge. She is slated to appear at a disciplinary hearing in November, where the Commission will make a recommendation on potential consequences, ranging from a public censure to removal from office. The final decision will be made by the Louisiana Supreme Court.
Source: KTBS
