Following a lengthy disciplinary process, the Florida Supreme Court has suspended Seminole County Judge Wayne Culver for 60 days without pay and issued a public reprimand for his misconduct in 2022.
The disciplinary action stems from two separate court proceedings in February 2022 where Culver engaged in “abusive and intemperate behavior,” including a profane outburst directed at a defendant.
In one instance, Culver yelled at a man named Kevin Newton who was waiting to appear before him, telling him to “shut up and sit down.” When Newton explained he was trying to find a seat, Culver responded with profanity and threatened him with contempt of court.
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The Supreme Court acknowledged the seriousness of Culver’s actions, stating that his behavior “was so unacceptable, and so potentially corrosive of public confidence in the judiciary, as to render Judge Culver a candidate for removal from the bench.”
However, the Court also considered mitigating factors, including “overwhelming” evidence that Culver was experiencing “intense personal pressure and loss” while caring for his dying father at the time of the incidents.
The Court noted that Culver expressed remorse for his actions, voluntarily sought mental health counseling, and cooperated fully with the disciplinary process. Numerous individuals, including fellow judges and attorneys, testified on his behalf.
Ultimately, the Supreme Court accepted the recommendation of the Judicial Qualifications Commission, suspending Culver for 60 days without pay and issuing a public reprimand. The Court emphasized the importance of judicial conduct, stating that judges are required to “conduct themselves with integrity; to be patient, dignified, and courteous toward others in official settings.”
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