Judge Ross’s Controversy and Apology
Judge Eleanor Ross, a federal judge in Atlanta, has issued another apology following revelations of her yearslong affair with a police commander in her court chambers. Her actions, described as “patently wrong,” were outlined in a second letter to her former clerks.
Judge Ross acknowledged, “I have no excuse and immensely regret my behavior,” showing more contrition than in her previous utterances. This admission follows scrutiny after a New York Times report on her ethical breaches. The report also highlighted calls from some House Republicans for her impeachment.
Response to Previous Revelations
The fresh apology from Judge Ross comes after a New York Times article covered her misconduct. The initial punishment she received brought to light the leniency often granted to federal judges, who enjoy lifetime appointments. Her case has raised questions about the disciplinary mechanisms that allow judges to oversee their peers’ behavior.
Three former clerks revealed to The New York Times that they heard Judge Ross engaging in sexual activity through her office door. She was also accused of neglecting her duties, often approving their draft orders without proper review. These exposures led to a judicial committee inquiry last year following a report by one clerk. The inquiry concluded with a private reprimand last month.
Further Apology Letters
Following the reprimand from the judicial council of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit, Judge Ross committed to sending apology letters to six former clerks. However, as reported by The Times, some recipients found the letters too brief and vague, comprising only three sentences.