A village judge on Long Island has resigned after learning that the New York State Commission on Judicial Conduct was investigating him for complaints of sexism, favoritism, and misconduct, the agency said on Monday.
Peter Gallanter, Justice of Manorhaven Village Court in Nassau County, left office on April 5 after learning of the investigation in March. In exchange for the commission dropping the investigation, he agreed to never seek or accept another judicial position in the future.
“It is intolerable for a judge to demean women with sexist language, or to bestow favors from the bench to friends,” said Commission Administrator Robert H. Tembeckjian. “The complaints against Judge Gallanter were serious, and his permanent departure from the bench is appropriate.”
Gallanter was accused of describing female lawyers and litigants in a demeaning and sexist manner, dismissing or reducing tickets for defendants he had personal relationships with, and improperly using security cameras to record courtroom proceedings.
After Gallanter’s departure, Manorhaven Mayor Jim Avena announced Judge Jim Roman as the new village justice. Gallanter had been village justice since 2008. His current term would have ended in July.
“Jim Roman is a proud resident of our village and dedicated to its advancement,” Mayor Avena said in a statement. “Our entire Manorhaven community will benefit from his experience, integrity, and high ethical standards, as he assumes the responsibilities of this position.”
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