Opinion ID: 1949231
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 12

Heading: conclusion

Text: We find the record contains substantial evidence supporting the Commission's factual findings that Judge Damron abused the authority of his office for personal political gain; improperly used the authority of his office to discourage defendants from exercising constitutional rights; considered ex parte communications in making a specific judicial decision; granted an ex parte request to set aside a DUI conviction without notice to the state; and misused his judicial authority in threatening litigants who complained about his conduct. In addition to these specific matters, the record also supports the Commission's findings that respondent routinely discouraged litigants from seeking legal representation and engaged in ex parte communications with parties, attorneys, and citizens concerning matters before his court for resolution. Equally important to the issue of removal is the Commission's finding that the judge's testimony was inconsistent, inaccurate, and, in many instances, inherently improbable and knowingly false, and that respondent's demeanor in response to many inquiries was not only unconvincing but evasive; and he could not or would not explain or justify many of his actions. We agree with the Commission's findings and recommended discipline. We hold that respondent's conduct demonstrates a present unfitness to hold office and we conclude that removal is the only sanction that will adequately protect the public and ensure the integrity of the judicial process. Accordingly, Judge Leonard A. Damron is hereby removed from the office of county court judge for Citrus County, Florida, effective on the date this opinion becomes final. It is so ordered. BOYD, C.J., and OVERTON, EHRLICH, SHAW and BARKETT, JJ., concur. McDONALD, J., concurs in part and dissents in part with an opinion, in which ADKINS, J., concurs.