Florida Criminal Attorney Blog
Texas district Judge Elizabeth E. Coker is stepping down from the bench after she was apparently caught texting prosecutors on how to win cases.
A whistleblower revealed that Corker was sending text messages to prosecutors with suggestions on questions to ask in court in order to secure a conviction.
The judge, who sits on the bench over Trinity, Polk and San Jacinto counties, has resigned, according to a voluntary agreement with the State Commission on Judicial Conduct.
It stems from complaints and media stories alleging that Coker “had engaged in improper ex parte text communications with Polk County Assistant District Attorney Kaycee Jones while Judge Coker presided” over a criminal trial in August of 2012.
With those complaints, “the commission commenced an investigation into allegations that Judge Coker used Assistant District Attorney Jones to privately communicate information” about the case “to suggest questions for the prosecutor to ask during the trial” among other issues.
The agreement also said the commission looked into other complaints that Coker allegedly engaged in other improper communications and meetings with Jones, other members of the Polk County prosecutor’s office, the San Jacinto County District Attorney and certain defense attorneys.
The agreement goes on to say “the parties agree that the allegations of judicial misconduct, if found to be true, could result in disciplinary action against Judge Coker.” As a result, the parties sought to resolve the matter “without the time and expense of further disciplinary proceedings.”
Coker did not admit any guilt or fault.
If you have been accused of a crime, our Florida Criminal Defense Lawyers at Whittel & Melton can help. We will examine every shred of evidence available to make sure you receive what you are owed – a fair trial. For a free consultation, call us today at 866-608-5529 or contact us online.