A district court in Troy, Michigan, is facing scrutiny after a formal complaint was filed against Judge Kristen Hartig, alleging misconduct and a toxic work environment. The complaint was lodged on Wednesday with the Michigan Judicial Tenure Commission, highlighting serious concerns regarding Hartig’s conduct and mental health evaluations.
Chief Judge Travis Reed announced his recommendation for Hartig’s temporary removal from her docket, stating that the integrity of the judicial system is crucial for maintaining public trust. “While due process is important, accountability helps preserve public trust in the judiciary,” he said. Hartig is expected to respond to the allegations within the next 14 days.
The complaint details a lengthy investigation initiated by the commission before April 2024, which reportedly raised concerns about Hartig’s mental well-being. She was instructed to undergo a psychological evaluation, the results of which she failed to submit in a timely manner. Although Hartig eventually provided the necessary documents, six months had passed since the commission’s initial request. The findings were also redacted to allow for a determination on whether they should remain confidential.
Further accusations within the complaint suggest that Hartig fostered a workplace environment characterized by intimidation. Reports indicate she required a court administrator to be available during her absences and criticized the administrator for not responding to emails while she attended a funeral. Hartig reportedly insisted that the administrator maintain daily contact unless incapacitated.
Additionally, the complaint alleges that Hartig instructed the court administrator to secure a replacement clerk despite that task being outside the administrator’s responsibilities. Disturbingly, she is also accused of asking a pregnant probation officer to display her belly during a Zoom meeting without consent.
Another serious point raised in the complaint involves Hartig’s handling of legal cases. The commission claims she improperly dismissed felony cases with prejudice, allegedly retaliating against Oakland County prosecutors over scheduling conflicts and disagreements during the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the commission, Hartig exceeded her authority in these dismissals, which should have been handled without prejudice.
The commission described at least one case as being dismissed without due diligence or good faith. Hartig has been serving as a district court judge since 2010 and currently runs the Recovery Treatment Court, an initiative aimed at rehabilitating individuals struggling with addiction. She has also engaged the community through town halls focused on the opioid crisis.
The unfolding situation highlights significant concerns about judicial accountability in Michigan, as the Judicial Tenure Commission continues its investigation into Hartig’s conduct and the broader implications for public trust in the judiciary.
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