Jasper County judge reprimanded by state supreme court

The Missouri Supreme Court this week reprimanded Jasper County Associate Circuit Judge
John A. Nicholas for reportedly seeking special treatment from city officials.

After reviewing the complete record filed and the parties having waived briefing and oral argument in this matter, the Court finds that Respondent engaged in misconduct under article V, section 24 of the Missouri Constitution and is in violation of Rules 2-1.2 and 2-2.8(B) of the Judicial Code of Conduct;

Missouri Lawyers Media reports it stems from his behavior last May, when he allegedly yelled and cursed at officials for not fixing a utility cable at his home before others after a storm rolled through.

The commission said the judge has since apologized to the officials and attributed his behavior to a concern for public safety and because he was “wet and frustrated.”

Although a reprimand carries few practical consequences, it marks a rare public disciplinary action against a judge.