Mental

Missouri Judge Faces Six-Month Suspension, Mental Health Scrutiny After Admitting to Misconduct

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Carrollton, Mo. – The judicial career of Associate Circuit Court Judge Joe Don McGaugh in Missouri’s Eighth Judicial Circuit hangs in the balance as a commission has suggested a severe disciplinary action. The Eighth Judicial Circuit, inclusive of Carroll and Ray counties, could see McGaugh sidelined for six months without salary following allegations of unethical behavior. The Commission on Retirement, Removal, and Discipline delivered a formal notice of alleged misconduct to McGaugh in August, which triggered the investigative and judicial review process. McGaugh has acknowledged the accusations leveled against him and proposed his terms for … Read more

South Dakota Receives ‘F’ in Nationwide Gun Legislation Evaluation, Sparks Debate on Gun Laws and Mental Health Support

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SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — South Dakota has received a failing grade in a recent evaluation of its gun legislation conducted by the Giffords Law Center to Prevent Gun Violence. The organization, which focuses on promoting gun safety, cited the state’s “weak laws” as the primary reason for this low rating. Despite the criticism, local responses vary. Kevin Jensen, a Republican senator-elect from Canton, expressed skepticism about the grading system used, labeling the Giffords Law Center as a “liberal, anti-gun organization.” Julie Parker, the South Dakota Chapter Leader for Moms Demand Action, highlighted the effectiveness of … Read more

Jury Deliberates Fate of Veteran Accused in Subway Chokehold Death Amid Tensions Over Public Safety and Mental Health Issues

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NEW YORK — A military veteran, Daniel Penny, could face up to 15 years behind bars if convicted in a controversial case that has gripped New York City. Accused of manslaughter, Penny is charged with fatally choking Jordan Neely, a homeless street performer, on a subway train under circumstances that raised alarm among passengers. Penny has entered a plea of not guilty, insisting that his intervention was necessary under the circumstances. On May 1, 2023, witnesses observed Neely, who was known for his Michael Jackson impersonations, acting erratically and screaming about starvation and dehydration. Some … Read more

Florida Supreme Court Temporarily Suspends Judge for Misconduct, Requires Continuing Mental Health Efforts

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Tallahassee, Fla. — Florida’s highest judicial body, the Supreme Court, has mandated a 60-day unpaid suspension and public reprimand for Seminole County Judge Wayne Culver, citing instances of inappropriate conduct in his courtroom. This decisive action reflects the court’s adherence to maintaining decorum and civility within the state’s judiciary system. The disciplinary measures, enforced on November 27 in case SC2022-0846, come after the Judicial Qualifications Commission (JQC) determined Judge Culver breached several judicial conduct codes. Culver was found guilty of exhibiting abusive behavior and not upholding the required patience, dignity, and courtesy during court proceedings … Read more