Judges are traditionally seen as the neutral arbiters of justice, expected to impartially apply the law. This foundational role ensures the judiciary acts as a buffer against potential abuses by the Executive branch, including the police. However, recent events involving Judge Erin P. Gall have cast shadows on this ideal.
As reported by the ABA Journal, the New York State Commission on Judicial Conduct found that Judge Gall engaged in racially offensive behavior and pledged preferential treatment for the police during a July 2022 event. Gall’s comments at a high school graduation party, specifically her declaration of support for police actions that could potentially violate civil rights, have drawn strong rebuke from the commission.
In one instance, Gall reassured a police officer worried about civil rights violations by stating, “I am always on your side”. Such a statement fundamentally undermines the concept of judicial neutrality and instills doubt concerning the impartiality of rulings involving police actions.
The commission also documented a disturbing incident where Gall threatened to use gun violence against teenagers searching for their car keys. Gall identified herself as a judge and made inflammatory remarks, including threats to call the police and suggesting that “they’ll be shot on the property”. Her misunderstanding of legal principles, such as the limited application of self-defense under the castle doctrine, further raises questions about her jurisprudence.
In its determination, the commission concluded that Gall’s actions “irreparably damaged her integrity” and compromised her ability to appear impartial, especially concerning race and law enforcement. Robert H. Tembeckjian, the commission’s administrator, deemed Gall’s behavior “utterly unacceptable”.
Responses from both Gall and her lawyer suggest disagreement with the commission’s findings, yet the breadth and gravity of the misconduct documented leave little room for ambiguity.
For more context on Judge Gall’s behavior and the commission’s recommendations, you can read the full piece on ABA Journal and further coverage on Above the Law.