Judge April T. Ademiluyi of the Prince George’s County Circuit Court in Maryland is facing a complaint alleging a wide range of misconduct that could warrant disciplinary action. On Thursday, June 29, 2023, the Commission on Judicial Disabilities issued formal charges against Judge Ademiluyi based on its investigation and finding of probable cause of sanctionable conduct.
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.
The charges against Judge Ademiluyi are extensive and encompass a wide range of misconduct, including but not limited to:
Refusal to Comply with Directives, Protocols, and Procedures: Judge Ademiluyi reportedly failed to follow the required new trial judge training, refused to cooperate with colleagues, and disregarded established protocols for managing court cases, absences, and work requirements.
Misconduct Related to Criminal Jury Trial and Criminal Defendants: During a criminal jury trial, Judge Ademiluyi exhibited bias against the defense, mishandled evidentiary issues, conducted ex parte communications, and made procedural and legal errors.
Failure to Exercise Appropriate Decorum and Demeanor: Judge Ademiluyi demonstrated a pattern of caustic, disrespectful, and unprofessional behavior towards her colleagues, staff, and court personnel.
Misconduct as a Candidate for Election: During her 2020 election campaign, Judge Ademiluyi is alleged to have made promises to sexual assault victims that could compromise her impartiality if such cases appeared before her.
Lack of Cooperation and Candor with Disciplinary Authorities: Judge Ademiluyi’s response to the Investigative Counsel’s requests for information during the investigation was evasive, misleading, and deceptive.
The Commission on Judicial Disabilities will now hold a public hearing on the charges against Judge Ademiluyi where both sides will present their cases and evidence. The judge has denied any wrongdoing and maintains that she has been the subject of retaliation by colleagues. A ruling on the complaint and any resulting sanctions would follow the conclusion of the disciplinary 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.
