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Judge Pope resigns from bench after probation violation
March 13, 2012
New Mexico: Judge John W. Pope has submitted his resignation from the Thirteenth District Court. The judge was asked to resign by the state Judicial Standards Commission and the New Mexico Supreme Court, following his failure to pass a random alcohol test.
Pope was subject to random testing due to being on probation following a missed criminal trial six years ago. The judge claimed he had a heart attack, forcing him to miss the trial. In fact, Pope has a substance abuse problem with alcohol.[1]
His resignation, effective March 16, leaves the Thirteenth District Court in a temporary bind. Pope was responsible for more than half of the criminal cases in the district, meaning that his resignation will soon be followed by a substantial judicial backlog.[1] Governor Susana Martinez will be responsible for appointing a successor for Judge Pope.[2]
To learn about other judges appointed by the governor, visit: Judges appointed by Susana Martinez.
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