Porn Found On Judge's Work Computer [View All]

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CLEARWATER, Fla. -- A Circuit Court judge has been accused of having pornographic images on his work computer and using improper conduct toward two female lawyers.

Brandt Downey, 60, habitually viewed pornography on his court-issued computer and had inappropriate contact and communications with female attorneys, the state Judicial Qualifications Commission said Tuesday.

Court employees were exposed to the images while working on Downey's computer, the charges state.

Downey's accused of telling an assistant state attorney, in private and in public, that she "looked nice today" and "looked pretty" and asked her to dine with him, which she declined. The charge also says he sent an inappropriate e-mail to a second female attorney.

"I am disheartened that the JQC has chosen to pursue these charges in what is now my last year on the bench. My attorney and I will make every effort to rapidly resolve these charges to our satisfaction," Downey said.

He announced last week that he will not seek re-election after 21 years on the bench in Pinellas and Pasco counties, citing "rumors and half-truths." Downey will retire when his term ends in January 2007.

JQC Special Counsel Beatrice Butchko, who is prosecuting Downey, said she intends to ask for his removal from office if the case goes to trial.

Downey also is charged with failing to disclose a juror's complaint that another juror was sleeping during a murder trial.

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