On Monday, September 30, 2024, the Detroit Free Press reported that Southfield District Judge Debra Nance is facing serious allegations regarding her honesty while under oath. The Michigan Judicial Tenure Commission (JTC) is investigating claims that Nance made false statements during two separate inquiries conducted by the commission. These allegations are particularly significant given the upcoming election in which she is seeking reelection.

Nance was first elected to her position in 2012, obtaining 62% of the vote, and was reelected in 2018 with a significant 89%. However, this year she is confronted with a strong opponent, Robin Dillard-Russaw, an experienced magistrate with a background as a deputy court administrator. Dillard-Russaw’s candidacy presents a formidable challenge to Nance, particularly as she navigates the ongoing scrutiny surrounding her integrity.

The core of the allegations against Nance involve accusations that she lied to JTC investigators regarding a formal complaint filed against her. Although the investigation has not concluded, it has raised concerns about her credibility. In campaign appearances, Nance has consistently highlighted her record without addressing the ongoing investigation, stating, “I have never been disciplined or reprimanded as an attorney or judge.” This statement, however, does not reflect the reality of the JTC’s actions, which include a formal complaint and scheduled hearings.

In her responses to voters and during public forums, Nance misrepresented the status of the JTC’s investigation. For instance, in a questionnaire from the League of Women Voters, she claimed that the complaint against her had been dismissed, a statement that was later clarified to be inaccurate. The JTC, not a judge, had merely recommended dismissal, and the matter remains unresolved, with a hearing set for February 2025.

The investigation into Nance’s conduct stems from an incident in 2019 at a judges’ conference, which reportedly triggered the formal complaint. While the JTC’s investigation is expected to take considerable time, Nance is compelled to address whether her alleged dishonesty will impact her chances of reelection, especially in light of Dillard-Russaw’s campaign emphasizing integrity.

Dillard-Russaw has refrained from directly criticizing Nance during her campaign events but has indicated a commitment to restoring integrity to the court. Her campaign materials highlight concerns about Nance’s ethical standing, suggesting that these issues undermine public trust in the judicial system. Dillard-Russaw’s approach appears to resonate with voters, as she has noted awareness of Nance’s integrity problems during her canvassing efforts.

In addition to the allegations of dishonesty, Nance has faced scrutiny regarding her travel expenses. Records from various courthouses in the region revealed that she has incurred significantly higher travel costs compared to her peers, including several international legal conferences with expenses reaching as high as $4,800 per trip. These expenditures, along with the ongoing investigation, could play a pivotal role in how voters perceive her qualifications for continued service on the bench.

As the election approaches, the Southfield District Court’s electorate will need to consider the implications of the JTC’s investigation alongside Nance’s record as a judge. The voters have the responsibility to assess whether the allegations of dishonesty and her perceived evasiveness in addressing these issues warrant her removal from office.

Nance’s opponent, Dillard-Russaw, has emphasized her qualifications and commitment to ethical standards in public service. The forthcoming election will ultimately determine whether the voters believe Nance’s claims of integrity and her ability to serve effectively in her judicial role, particularly in light of the serious allegations currently hanging over her head.

 

 

Source: Detroit Free Press