On Wednesday, April 23, 2025, the Gainesville Daily Register reported that Judge Janelle Haverkamp of the 235th District Court has been recused from nearly 400 cases. This decision was made by Presiding Judge David Evans, who ordered the recusal due to potential conflicts involving District Attorney John Warren.

The recusal affects a total of 397 cases, stemming from concerns raised by Warren regarding Haverkamp’s impartiality. He argued that the public could reasonably doubt her fairness, particularly in light of a recent habeas corpus proceeding concerning Michael Newberry, a man convicted of capital murder. Haverkamp previously served as the prosecuting attorney in Newberry’s trial. A judge has since recommended a new trial, citing Haverkamp’s failure to disclose exculpatory evidence to the defense.

Warren’s request for Haverkamp’s recusal emphasized the impact of this prior involvement on her ability to remain impartial. The matter is currently pending before the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals for a final ruling.

In a voluntary recusal order signed earlier this year, Haverkamp accused Warren of engaging in a political vendetta against her, particularly after she filed criminal complaints against his office with the Texas Rangers. Evans stated in his ruling, “I find that as long as Mr. Warren is the District Attorney of the 235th Judicial District, a member of the public would have a reasonable doubt about the impartiality of Judge Haverkamp.”

Previously, Haverkamp had recused herself from 125 cases, with the remaining cases addressed in this month’s hearing. The order covers all civil cases managed by the district attorney’s office, including protective orders and asset forfeiture cases, and will remain in effect for as long as Warren holds his position.

Despite the recusal from these cases, Haverkamp is still permitted to preside over family law and civil disputes. Notably, she did not attend the recent hearing, as current law prohibits her from responding to a motion for recusal.

 

 

Source: Gainesville Daily Register