On Monday, December 9, 2024, KTBS reported that the Louisiana Judiciary Commission is currently examining testimony regarding allegations of judicial misconduct against Shreveport City Court Judge Sheva Sims. The commission’s hearing officer is in the process of preparing a report that will be submitted to the commission, which will ultimately decide whether to recommend any disciplinary measures against Sims.

Judge Sims, who has held her position since 2011, is accused of exhibiting unprofessional behavior towards litigants in her courtroom, misusing a court-owned vehicle, and misapplying the law in multiple cases. The chief executive officer of the Judiciary Commission has outlined these allegations in a formal document detailing the case against her. In response to the accusations, Sims has denied all claims of misconduct.

A spokesman for the Louisiana Supreme Court, which holds the authority to impose disciplinary actions, indicated that an evidentiary hearing took place on November 18. The retired judge serving as the hearing officer has not yet issued a report to the nine-member commission. Following the review, the commission will make its recommendations to the Supreme Court, where potential disciplinary actions could range from a public reprimand to removal from office, or a decision that no action is warranted.

The Judiciary Commission has presented a six-count notice of hearing that outlines the alleged unethical conduct attributed to Judge Sims. The chief executive officer, Sandra Vujnovich, stated that Sims has brought disrepute to the judicial office through her behavior. The notice highlights instances of rudeness and abrasive conduct towards litigants, court employees, and even fellow judges. Vujnovich noted that Sims’ demeanor has fostered an environment of fear among those who might confront her with differing opinions or information.

In her defense, Sims has asserted that she treats individuals with respect and that any mistakes made were not out of bad faith. Her attorney, Carl Hellmers III, emphasized that the allegations stem from isolated incidents that do not constitute a violation of judicial ethics. Hellmers further stated that Judge Sims has maintained high standards of conduct throughout her tenure.

The commission has outlined a series of alleged inappropriate actions taken by Sims. In one case from 2022, during an eviction proceeding, she reportedly exhibited rude and dismissive behavior toward the petitioner before issuing a ruling that contradicted the evidence presented. This case is cited as an example of her failure to uphold the expected standards of patience and courtesy in her judicial role.

Additionally, Sims is accused of using a City Court vehicle for personal purposes for a three-week period in early 2023. During this time, the vehicle’s fuel costs were covered by deputy city marshals using their office Fuelman cards.

In another eviction case, Sims allegedly conducted her own investigation by obtaining photographs and documents from the city property standards department. During the court hearing, her questioning created an impression that she was favoring one party over the other.

Furthermore, Sims is reported to have violated state law by releasing ten defendants, primarily in domestic violence cases, on their own recognizance. She also issued a bond order for an individual accused of second-offense DWI without enforcing the installation of an ignition interlock device as a condition of release.

The Judiciary Commission’s report also includes concerns about Sims’ treatment of court employees. According to the commission, her behavior has been so detrimental that some staff have required consolation, while others have either resigned or requested transfers to work with different judges.

In 2015, Sims faced a 30-day suspension for improperly holding a city prosecutor in contempt without justification and for dismissing 15 criminal cases beyond her legal authority. She has also been previously admonished by the Judiciary Commission for habitual tardiness to court and for improperly demanding disciplinary action against a deputy city marshal.

Sims’ lawyer has pointed out that the commission has previously reviewed and dismissed several other complaints against her as without merit.

 

 

Source: KTBS