SUPCO Says Former Judge Deserves Stronger Punishment

The Ohio Supreme Court today rejected a recommended six-month suspension of the law license of former Franklin County Environmental Court Judge Harland Hale. The justices told the Board of Commissioners on Grievances and Discipline to consider a stronger penalty. Hale admits he committed judicial misconduct by dismissing a speeding ticket in December 2011. The ticket was issued to an attorney who represented Hale in three sexual harassment lawsuits filed by a court employee and a defendant in a drunken-driving case. Hale retired last May.  Dan Hawkins was elected in November to succeed Hale.