Wisconsin Supreme Court Suspends Judge for Unprofessional Conduct
MADISON, Wis. — The Wisconsin Supreme Court has imposed a one-week suspension on Dane County Circuit Judge Ellen Berz, set to begin on June 26, following serious allegations of misconduct in court. This suspension marks the second such disciplinary action against a Wisconsin judge in just five weeks.
The court’s decision stemmed from a complaint which accused Judge Berz of impulsively leaving the courtroom to attempt to arrest a hospitalized defendant in an operating-while-intoxicated case back in December 2021. When informed that the defendant was in a Sun Prairie emergency room, Berz instructed her bailiff to make the arrest, but upon learning that the bailiff could not leave the premises, she decided to drive to the hospital herself—with the defendant’s attorney accompanying her. The journey was halted only after the defense attorney cautioned her against such an action, reminding her of her role as an impartial decision-maker.
Additionally, the complaint highlighted Berz’s unprofessional remarks toward another defendant involved in a child sexual assault case, notably expressing sarcasm about possible trial delays, which further undermined the decorum expected from a sitting judge. The Supreme Court emphasized the need for judges to exhibit patience, impartiality, and restraint, indicating that the suspension was meant to reflect the judiciary’s commitment to professionalism.
Judge Berz has acknowledged the facts of the case and accepted responsibility for her actions. This latest suspension follows the indefinite suspension of Milwaukee County Circuit Judge Hannah Dugan, accused of obstructing a federal investigation. As the judicial conduct review continues, the Wisconsin judicial system faces growing scrutiny regarding its standards of conduct.
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