Judge Reprimanded for Ex-Defendant Friendship

(CN) - The Florida Supreme Court reprimanded Judge Mary Jane Henderson for having a relationship with a former defendant from her courtroom.

Henderson, a judge in Volusia County, loaned money to Henry Wheeler, helped him lease an apartment, and bought him a cell phone and a truck.

The Judicial Qualifications Commission recommended the sanction, and the Florida justices approved it.

Henderson is undergoing mental health counseling and has entered into a performance agreement with the commission.

"We agree with the Judicial Qualifications Commission's finding that 'the interests of justice, the public welfare and sound judicial administration will be well served by a public reprimand of Judge Henderson," the state high court ruled.

Henderson will also be required to appear before the court to receive the public reprimand.

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