On Monday, June 30, 2025, WAFB reported that newly unsealed court documents shed light on the reasons behind the Louisiana State Supreme Court’s temporary suspension of Baton Rouge Justice of the Peace Tracy Batieste.
The Judiciary Commission of Louisiana, the court’s investigative body, recommended the interim disqualification, citing concerns that Batieste’s actions could significantly harm the public or the judicial system’s integrity.
The Supreme Court issued the suspension order on June 25, 2025, giving the Commission six months to establish probable cause that Batieste violated the Code of Judicial Conduct. During this period, Batieste will continue to receive her salary.
The Commission’s documents highlight multiple complaints related to her handling of eviction proceedings in her court, which serves Ward 2, District 3. Batieste assumed office in January 2021, with her term set to conclude in December 2026.
According to the documents, two landlords accused Batieste of imposing unauthorized fees, frequently starting court sessions late, and failing to respond to communications or provide requested documentation. Additionally, the Commission noted that Batieste was uncooperative during its inquiries, only responding after being served a subpoena. The Commission also received complaints from other landlords, who alleged that Batieste caused unnecessary delays in proceedings and was unresponsive to their inquiries.
Further allegations involve Batieste’s failure to pay her constable his portion of court-generated fees. The constable claims he is owed approximately $25,000 for documents served on her behalf, while Batieste acknowledges owing money but disputes the amount, estimating it at around $5,000. She attributed the discrepancy to periods when she was hospitalized and claimed that staff members had stolen from her.
The Judiciary Commission emphasized that seeking interim disqualification is a rare step, taken only after receiving credible evidence of misconduct. In this case, the Commission pointed to Batieste’s alleged overcharging of citizens, delays in court proceedings, and inconsistent communication as justification for its immediate action.
Source: WAFB
