Cook County Judge Disciplined For Allowing Attorney To Pretend To Be A Judge
By Susie AnCook County Judge Disciplined For Allowing Attorney To Pretend To Be A Judge
By Susie AnJudge Valarie Turner allegedly allowed an attorney to wear a judicial robe and hear at least two cases from her bench.
Turner had been assigned to the Sixth Municipal District Courthouse in Markham in a rotation with other judges. She’s now been temporarily reassigned to non-judicial duties. The attorney, Rhonda Crawford, is a law clerk with the Office of the Chief Judge. She’s also a candidate for judicial election in November. She’s been suspended without pay during an investigation.
In a statement, Chief Judge Timothy Evans says he’s taken steps to preserve public confidence in the judicial system and would not comment further because the investigation is ongoing.