Judge Christina J. Peterson’s election as Douglas County’s first African-American and female Probate Court Judge marked a significant milestone in the county’s history. Her victory in 2021 was not just a personal achievement but a beacon of progress and diversity in the judiciary. However, her tenure has been fraught with challenges, controversies, and legal troubles that have overshadowed her historic win.
Judicial Misconduct Allegations
Judge Peterson’s journey took a drastic turn with allegations of judicial misconduct. Facing 50 ethics charges, her situation became a focal point of controversy. Although 20 charges were dismissed before the trial and another 10 during the trial, she was left to contend with 20 charges from five incidents, many of which she argued were beyond her control.
Examples of Alleged Misconduct
- Backdated Documents: This issue involved clerks backdating documents, a practice she inherited from her predecessor, but for which she was held accountable.
- Courthouse Wedding Incident: Accused of violating courthouse security, video evidence revealed that it was a sheriff’s deputy, not Judge Peterson, who allowed people into the courthouse.
- Delayed Order Signing: She faced criticism for not signing an order promptly, a practice not uncommon among her peers.
The Red Martini Incident
One of the most contentious episodes of her career was the incident at Red Martini, which led to her arrest. Judge Peterson explained that she intervened to protect a woman she believed was being attacked. The bodycam footage, which has been widely circulated, only captures part of the altercation. Judge Peterson insists that she was not under the influence and that her actions were motivated by a genuine desire to help.
The Traffic Stop and Arrest
On May 15, 2024, Judge Peterson was arrested on charges of battery against a police officer. During a routine traffic stop, she allegedly became confrontational when asked to step out of her vehicle for a sobriety test. According to the police report, she struck the officer in the face, leading to her immediate arrest. This incident, captured on bodycam footage, has sparked widespread debate about her conduct and the broader implications of her actions.
Legal and Professional Consequences
The consequences of these incidents have been severe. Judge Peterson faces serious charges, including assault on a law enforcement officer, a felony in Georgia. Conviction could result in significant jail time, fines, and the permanent loss of her judicial position. Additionally, the Georgia Judicial Qualifications Commission (JQC) has launched an investigation into her behavior, potentially leading to disciplinary actions independent of the criminal proceedings.
Community and Colleague Reactions
The community’s reaction to Judge Peterson’s troubles has been mixed. Some supporters argue that she has been unfairly targeted due to her race, gender, and political affiliation. They point to her achievements and the barriers she has broken as evidence of her commitment to justice and equality.
Legal experts and colleagues have also weighed in, offering varied perspectives. Some believe that the charges against her reflect a pattern of behavior unbecoming of a judge, while others see them as exaggerated and driven by political motives. Public statements from those involved in the incidents have also contributed to the debate, with some supporting the official narrative and others defending Judge Peterson’s actions.
Judge Peterson’s Perspective
In her interview on V103’s Big Tigger Morning Show, Judge Peterson provided a personal account of her experiences. She described the hostile political environment in Douglas County and the numerous attacks she faced since taking office. Despite the challenges, she remains committed to fighting for justice and exposing the truth.
As Judge Peterson navigates these turbulent times, her story serves as a powerful reminder of the obstacles faced by those who break barriers and the resilience required to overcome them. Her determination to continue her fight for justice and her unwavering commitment to her community are testaments to her character and dedication.