Jackson, Mich. (WKHM) — Michigan’s Judicial Tenure Commission has authorized a formal complaint against Judge Thomas D. Wilson, a long-time judge of the 4th Circuit Court. The complaint alleges a pattern of serious misconduct, accusing the judge of multiple violations that undermine public trust in the judiciary.
According to the complaint, Judge Wilson allegedly abused alcohol, appearing disheveled and smelling of liquor in public and even in the courthouse, beginning between 2013-2015 and continuing until 2020 or 2021. He also allegedly engaged in inappropriate sexual harassment, making graphic comments and sexual advances to female colleagues, including other judges and a prosecutor.
The complaint also details allegations of Judge Wilson improperly interfering in multiple cases, including a criminal case assigned to him and his own divorce. He was also accused of using his position to influence legal proceedings for a relative, attempting to have a “minor in possession” charge dismissed.
The commission claims Judge Wilson repeatedly failed to disclose conflicts of interest, presiding over cases involving attorneys who were his tenants or business partners. He’s also accused of causing excessive delays in issuing decisions on cases, as well as obstructing the reporting of such delays.
In under-oath testimony to the commission provided on January 22 and April 15 of this year, Judge Wilson admitted that he had committed many of these allegations.
Judge Wilson has been a licensed lawyer since 1989 and a 4th Circuit Court judge since 2007.
According to the complaint, Judge Wilson has 14 days to file an answer, “an original verified answer to the foregoing complaint, and nine copies thereof, must be filed with the Commission within 14 days after service of the complaint upon respondent. Such answer must contain a full and fair disclosure of all facts and circumstances pertaining to the allegations. Willful concealment, misrepresentation, or failure to file an answer and disclosure are additional grounds for disciplinary action.”