US District Judge Eleanor Ross has apologised for her actions after an investigation confirmed she had sex with a police officer in her chambers and initially denied it. In a letter to a former law clerk, she described her behaviour as harmful, offensive and unprofessional.
Investigation Findings
The probe, launched by Chief Judge William Pryor of the 11th Judicial Circuit, found that Ross engaged in sexual activity with a high-ranking uniformed officer in the courthouse, attended a partisan political event, and lied when confronted. The investigation began after a law clerk reported multiple instances of sexual activity during working hours.
Apology and Reprimand
Ross received a private reprimand and agreed not to seek the position of chief judge. She also wrote apology letters to six former clerks. In her latest letter, she apologised for falsely accusing the clerk of fabricating the allegations, stating she had no excuse and immensely regretted her behaviour.
Details of Misconduct
Security footage and logs showed an officer frequently visiting the judge's chambers around lunchtime. Six clerks recalled seeing the officer, and three overheard what may have been sexual activity. Clerks also reported that Ross attended a primary election victory party for a district attorney friend, where she admitted to drinking too many martinis.
Work Environment
Clerks described an eggshell culture, though the committee found no evidence of abusive behaviour. Ross admitted to an extramarital sexual relationship but denied mistreating staff. She acknowledged attending a mixer but maintained it was separate from the victory party.
Ongoing Proceedings
Federal judges are appointed for life and can only be removed through impeachment. Two Georgia congressmen have filed impeachment resolutions against Ross, and the House Judiciary Committee will decide whether to proceed.
