The Maryland Commission on Judicial Disabilities issued a notice of public charges and hearing for the case of Judge April T. Ademiluyi. The case is entitled “In the Matter of April T. Ademiluyi,” with case no. 2022-079.
The charges cited Rule 18-101.1, Rule 18-101.2, Rule 18-102.1, Rule 18-102.2, Rule 18-102.3, Rule 18-102.4, Rule 18-102.5, Rule 18-102.7, Rule 18-102.8(b), Rule 18-102.9, Rule 18-102.11(a)(1), (4) and (c), Rule 18-102.12(a), Rule 18-102.16(a), Rule 18-103.1, Rule 18-104.4(a),(b) and (d) of the Maryland Code of Judicial Conduct.
On June 29, 2023, following a thorough investigation, the Commission on Judicial Disabilities formally levied charges against Ademiluyi. These charges were rooted in multiple provisions outlined within the Maryland Code of Judicial Conduct. The allegations brought forth encompass a spectrum of concerns, encompassing aspects such as Ademiluyi’s failure to adhere to established protocols and procedures, instances of misconduct during a criminal jury trial, instances of improper demeanor, alleged misconduct during her election campaign, and an apparent lack of willingness to cooperate with the disciplinary authorities overseeing the case. The charges collectively paint a comprehensive picture of the concerns raised against Ademiluyi’s conduct and professional behavior.
In her reply, Ademiluyi refuted any assertion that her actions transgressed the aforementioned Code of Judicial Conduct. She elucidated that she faced bias, ridicule, and hostility from fellow members of the judiciary right from the commencement of her journey onto the bench, a situation partly fueled by her campaign statements. Particularly, she encountered contentious and confrontational behavior from the then-Administrative Judge, Sheila R. Tillerson Adams. The cumulative effect of these challenges contributed to a detrimental atmosphere within the courthouse. Consequently, Judge Ademiluyi found herself adopting a defensive posture and occasionally responding unfavorably to the perceived antagonism directed her way.
The report states:
“Judge Ademiluyi firmly refutes the notion that her actions serve as substantiation for her involvement in any behavior that could undermine the effective operation of justice in Maryland Courts, as outlined in accordance with Article IV, Section 4B(b)(1) of the Maryland Constitution.”
In relation to the charges and Ademiluyi’s response, the Maryland Commission on Judicial Disabilities has scheduled a hearing to deliberate upon the matter. The hearing will start at 10:00 a.m. on December 13, 14, 20 and 21, 2023. The first two days of the hearing will be held at the Appellate Court of Maryland, Courtroom 1, Robert C. Murphy Building, 361 Rowe Boulevard in Annapolis, Maryland. The last two days of the hearing will be held at the Judicial College of Maryland, Room 133, 187 Harry S. Truman Parkway in Annapolis, Maryland. Anyone can attend the hearing.
April T. Ademiluyi is a judge in Prince George’s County, Maryland since 2020. She was born in Baltimore and studied chemical engineering at the University of Maryland and law at the Antonin Scalia School of Law. She was a solo lawyer for 13 years. You can find more information about her on Maryland Manual On-Line.
A copy of the original filing can be found here.
