On Tuesday, February 4, 2025, The Daily Record reported that the Maryland Supreme Court suspended Baltimore City District Court Judge Jennifer Etheridge from her judicial duties for a period of 20 days without pay. This action follows accusations from the state’s judicial disciplinary body, which alleged that Etheridge confronted and threatened law enforcement officers during an incident last September.
The Supreme Court’s order specifies that Etheridge’s suspension will be without pay for 20 days, but with 15 days of that suspension conditionally stayed, contingent upon her successful completion of a discipline by consent agreement. As a result of this ruling, two public hearings that were set for April 16 and April 28 before the Maryland Commission on Judicial Disabilities have been canceled.
The charges against Etheridge stem from an incident that occurred on September 2, 2023. During a response to a 911 call about domestic violence, two Baltimore City police officers encountered Etheridge while handling the situation. The officers reported witnessing Etheridge on the ground amid broken bottles of alcohol and suspected that she was intoxicated, noting the smell of alcohol on her breath at the time.
The commission’s investigation revealed claims that Etheridge confronted the officers after being prevented from entering her residential street, which was blocked by a municipal truck. The judge allegedly argued that she should have been allowed access to her home and expressed frustration over the situation, stating, “When I see you in court, I’ll remember you,” while pointing at one of the officers.
Further details from the commission’s findings indicated that Etheridge fell and injured herself as she attempted to navigate the blocked street. The investigation concluded that Etheridge had been evasive and insincere in her responses to the commission, failing to cooperate fully with the inquiry.
According to the commission’s report, Etheridge showed a lack of awareness regarding her conduct and did not express remorse for her actions. Instead, she attempted to shift the blame onto others involved in the incident. Notably, she referenced the death of Judge Andrew Wilkinson, who died shortly after the encounter with police, suggesting this influenced her actions that day.
In her written response, Etheridge acknowledged the inappropriateness of her behavior and expressed regret over the incident. She detailed personal struggles, including being the sole caregiver for her elderly mother and dealing with emotional distress related to the upcoming anniversary of her husband’s death. Etheridge described how, after falling and spilling wine on herself, she returned to the scene to express her concerns about access to the street for residents.
As part of her disciplinary measures, Etheridge is required to complete a series of training and educational courses as directed by the commission. Additionally, she must undergo a substance abuse evaluation and write letters of apology related to the incident.
Jennifer Etheridge has been serving as a district court judge in Baltimore City since May 2012.
Source: The Daily Record
