Pistol Packing Judge Censured

A judge who had approved his own application to carry a concealed weapon and carried his pistol to court chambers has been censured by the New York State Commission on Judicial Conduct.

The judge decided to carry a weapon after he had been theatened by individuals on two occasions and followed home from court by persons unknown.

The problem came to light on January 21, 2010 when the judge attempted to repair his revolver in his chambers. He did not know that it was loaded but nonetheless pointed it at a concrete wall for safety reasons. The gun accidentally discharged and, fortunately, no one was hurt. The .38 caliber bullet was recovered from a chambers wall.

The judge will retire on December 31, 2012. (Mike Frisch)