SEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. – A Seminole County judge, who was suspended for “intemperate conduct” behind the bench, has been reprimanded by the Florida Supreme Court.
While appearing in Tallahassee on Wednesday, Judge Wayne Culver was scolded by Chief Justice Carlos Muñiz for the inappropriate actions.
“Your behavior was unacceptable and grossly inconsistent with our court’s expectations for he judges of our state,” Muñiz said.
The public reprimand came in response to two cases of misconduct in 2022 where Culver used profanity and either held or threatened to hold people in contempt of court.
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The Florida Supreme Court decided to suspend Culver for 60 days after a hearing where the judge admitted he acted inappropriately and sought mental health counseling.
“The (Florida Judicial Qualifications) commission credited your sincere contrition, your acceptance of responsibility and your proactive efforts to get treatments for anger management and stress,” Muñiz said.
As Wednesday’s public admonishment came to a close, Culver was given a stern warning for when he returns to the bench following his suspension.
“While we acknowledge that this was a brief period in a very difficult time in your life, we emphasize that there will be no second chances if this ever happens again,” Muñiz said.
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