On Monday, May 18, 2026, OregonLive reported that Marion County Circuit Judge Channing Bennett is on leave amid allegations of vulgar and misogynistic language used at a judicial conference. Sources indicate that Bennett allegedly made offensive remarks about a prosecutor and another judge during a social hour at the Oregon Circuit Court Judges Association conference held at Sunriver Resort last month.
The Oregon Judicial Department confirmed that a judicial fitness complaint has been filed against Bennett concerning “serious allegations of misconduct.” A spokesperson for the department, Laura Kerns, stated that an outside lawyer has been hired to investigate the claims, but declined to provide further specifics or identify the complainant. Bennett is reportedly “taking some time away from the bench,” with no clear indication of when he stepped down or when he is expected to return.
The allegations stem from a social event during the three-day conference, which included sessions on topics such as trauma, elder and child abuse reporting, and public records law. According to a source present at the event, the discussion shifted to potential candidates for an upcoming opening on the Marion County bench. At this point, Bennett allegedly used a derogatory term to refer to a prosecutor who was considered a candidate for the position. The prosecutor was not present at the time of the alleged remarks.
Another source, who was not present but was briefed by attendees, reported that Bennett also used language interpreted as disparaging towards a male judge. Alcohol was available at the social hour, though it is unclear if Bennett had consumed any.
Marion County District Attorney Paige Clarkson confirmed her office was made aware of an incident involving Bennett following the conference, stating that the “vulgar and inappropriate comments were not restricted to a prosecutor in my office but also extended to other members of the justice system.” Clarkson added that Bennett has not been present in the courthouse or managing criminal cases.
Judge Jim Edmonds, the presiding judge for Marion County Circuit Court, was referred to for comment but did not respond to inquiries.
Bennett, a Gov. Kate Brown appointee, has served on the Marion County bench since 2013, with his current term set to expire on December 31, 2028. He previously worked at a civil law firm before becoming a pro tem judge in 2010 and holds a law degree from Boston College Law School.
The Oregon Judicial Fitness Commission, composed of nine members including judges, lawyers, and public members, is responsible for investigating complaints of judicial misconduct and making disciplinary recommendations to the Oregon Supreme Court.
Source: OregonLive
