The Colorado Supreme Court and the Commission on Judicial Discipline are once again under scrutiny for their involvement in the pay-for-silence scandal that has plagued the institution under the leadership of Chief Justices Ben Coats, Brian Boatright, and Monica Marquez. Despite recent events, including Marquez’s appointment as chief justice, the lack of transparency and accountability within the court system continues to raise serious concerns among the public.
Judge David Prince, a vocal critic of the Supreme Court, was replaced on the Commission on Judicial Discipline by a known Boatright supporter, leading to the removal of Christopher Gregory as executive director for his efforts to hold those accountable for their involvement in the scandal. Anne Mangiardi, a new appointee to the position, has faced questions about her involvement in the scandal during her time at the state attorney general’s office.
The lack of transparency surrounding Mangiardi’s hiring process and her knowledge of the scandal are raising red flags about the commission’s commitment to addressing the ethical issues within the judicial branch. With $350,000 in taxpayer dollars spent on two independent investigations into the scandal, questions remain about the court’s willingness to hold itself accountable for its actions.
The public is demanding answers and transparency from the Colorado Supreme Court and the Commission on Judicial Discipline as suspicions of cover-ups and deception continue to grow. As the state prepares for important retention votes for judges, including Marquez, Boatright, and Berkenkotter, the need for accountability and integrity within the court system has never been more crucial.
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