Personal Bankruptcy Deception Costs Judge in New Orleans
Porteous Suspended
The judge’s lawyer contends that this is the most severe punishment ever handed out to someone residing on the federal bench and feels that it’s unwarranted. But, the facts may tell a different story.
In 2001 when the judge filed for personal bankruptcy, he allegedly incurred significant gambling debts under a fictitious name even though he had been specifically told by officials not to incur anymore debt while in bankruptcy proceedings according to a report by a Fifth Circuit investigative committee.
In addition, gifts from lawyers included “cash payments, numerous lunches, payments for travel, meals, and hotel rooms in Las Vegas.” All of these alleged infractions were cited in a Judicial Conference June report.
While he awaits potential impeachment hearings, and for his infractions, the judge has been given a two-year suspension from the bench by the Judicial Council.
September 18, 2008 – 4:06 pm