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Embattled judge resigns from bench
February 22, 2012
New Mexico: After nine months of suspension, Judge Mike Murphy (New Mexico) has announced his resignation from the Third Judicial District Court. Murphy was suspended by the New Mexico Supreme Court last May after he was indicted on charges of bribery. Allegedly, in 2007, Murphy told a judicial applicant to the Third District Court that she must make a financial donation to the Democratic Party if she wanted to be appointed.[1][2]
The ensuing case has even implicated former Governor Bill Richardson, whom Murphy implied would be a recipient of the donation. For his part, the governor denies any wrongdoing.[3]
Now, Judge Murphy has made clear that he wants to put the interest of the Third District's constituents first, recognizing that his age, health, and legal condition are negatively affecting justice in the district. He will officially resign on February 24, 2012.[4]
Footnotes
- ↑ Santa Fe New Mexican, "N.M. judge suspended in bribery allegations," May 16, 2011 (dead link)
- ↑ NMPolitics.net, "Murphy suspended without pay," May 16, 2011
- ↑ NMpolitics.net, "Richardson denies judicial bribery allegations," May 18, 2011
- ↑ KRWG.com, "NM District Judge Says He's Resigning This Month," February 9, 2012
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