Broward judge faces discipline over political contributions

Broward judge faces discipline over political contributions

A circuit judge in Broward County, who is already under consideration for a possible reprimand by the Florida Supreme Court, may also face disciplinary action for making political donations, according to filings submitted Friday by the state’s Judicial Qualifications Commission (JQC).

Earlier this year, in January, the JQC advised the Supreme Court to issue a reprimand to Judge Stefanie Moon due to two specific incidents. One involved her reminding an attorney in court that he had not responded to a phone call regarding her campaign for re-election. The other centered on her contacting a therapist treating a man involved in a case before her, where mental health was a relevant concern.

However, new allegations outlined in Friday’s filing accuse Moon of breaching judicial conduct rules by contributing to political groups. These donations reportedly included contributions to organizations supporting former Democratic presidential contender Kamala Harris, President Joe Biden, and ActBlue, a fundraising platform linked to the Democratic Party.

Moon and the JQC have reached a proposed resolution that would include a public reprimand and a $2,115 fine—the total amount of the political donations in question.

“The commission believes that a public reprimand and fine will be sufficient to deter similar misconduct by the respondent (Moon) in the future and will also serve as a reminder to future candidates for judicial office that they must protect the integrity of judicial elections by refraining from inappropriate campaign activity and improper political contributions,” one of the documents stated.

The final decision regarding any disciplinary action will rest with the Florida Supreme Court.