A New Jersey judge is under scrutiny after he posed a deeply inappropriate question to a woman who reported a sexual assault. During a 2016 hearing, Judge Thomas Greene was accused of misconduct for asking the victim if she had attempted to “close her legs” to avoid the assault. This line of questioning has sparked outrage and led to recommendations for a three-month suspension without pay, as reported by the state Advisory Committee on Judicial Conduct.
Violations of Judicial Conduct Standards
The advisory board found that Judge Greene violated judicial conduct standards on multiple occasions during the hearing. The New Jersey Supreme Court has scheduled a hearing for July to address these recommendations. In the original hearing, the victim was seeking a restraining order related to domestic violence when Judge Greene’s questioning took a troubling turn.
He asked the victim, “Do you know how to stop someone from having intercourse with you?” to which she replied, “I’d probably physically harm them… tell them no… to stop, or try to run away.” Greene continued to press her for additional alternatives, suggesting, “Block your body parts? Close your legs? Call the police? Did you do any of those things?”
Criticism and Victim-Blaming Concerns
These questions have drawn widespread criticism for their victim-blaming nature. It raises the question of why victims of sexual assault should bear any responsibility for their attackers’ actions. The advisory panel expressed concern that Greene’s comments reflected a lack of emotional maturity unfit for someone in his position.
This incident is not isolated; Judge Greene has faced other allegations of misconduct, including failing to recuse himself from cases involving acquaintances and improper communication with litigants. While he denies any wrongdoing, he has stated that he would not ask similar questions in the future.
Impact on Victims and Judicial Integrity
The advisory board emphasizes that Greene’s behavior was not only discourteous and inappropriate, but it also risked re-traumatizing the victim who sought help in a vulnerable situation. It is essential for members of the judiciary to maintain a standard of decorum that upholds the integrity of the judicial system.
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Conclusion
In summary, Judge Greene’s questioning of a sexual assault victim has raised serious concerns about judicial conduct, leading to recommendations for disciplinary action. The advisory committee highlighted the need for judges to approach sensitive cases with the utmost care and respect, ensuring that victims are treated with dignity.
Keyphrase: Judge misconduct in sexual assault case
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