Former Alabama judge pleads guilty to theft, abuse of power
An Alabama judge who resigned earlier this year while under indictment has pleaded guilty to three felony charges of theft and abuse of power. Doug Patterson’s plea Friday negates his trial that had been scheduled in about two weeks. Instead, he faces up to 40 years in prison at sentencing on Dec. 8. “Patterson’s actions as an attorney and as a judge tarnished and debased the judicial system,” Attorney General Steve Marshall said in a statement. “His conviction sends a clear message that public officials who abuse their position, harm vulnerable parties, and flagrantly disregard Alabama law will be held accountable for their crimes.” Efforts to reach Patterson for comment Friday were unsuccessful and defense attorney Dan Totten didn’t return a call for comment, al.com reported. The plea agreement requires Patterson to repay nearly $73,000 that was stolen from a juvenile court fund and two of his former legal clients, Then-Gov. Robert Bentley appointed Patterson as a district judge in March 2016. A native of Athens, Patterson was elected to a full term in 2017. He was removed from the bench in August 2019 after an investigation began. In a letter to Limestone County presiding Judge Robert Baker, Patterson confessed to “unethical, criminal and reprehensible” conduct. Still, he pleaded not guilty to the charges and continued to draw a $10,800-per-month salary until he resigned in July. Republished with the permission of the Associated Press.
Accused Ex-Judge withdraws bid to have charges thrown out
The former judge was indicted for stealing from clients has withdrawn a bid to have the charges thrown out.
Kay Ivey appoints Alabama prosecutor to replace indicted judge
An Alabama prosecutor is now one of the state’s newest judges. Gov. Kay Ivey appointed Limestone County prosecutor Russell “Gray” West to replace Doug Patterson as a district judge for Place 1 in the county. West, 31, was sworn in Friday to the post. West began his legal career at the District Attorney’s Office after graduating from the University of Alabama School of Law in 2014. “It’s still a bit surreal,” West told AL.com by phone following the swearing-in ceremony. “It’s slowly but surely sinking in that it’s happening.” West said he’s excited to start hearing cases, which could happen as soon as next week. He acknowledged that part of his role in replacing Patterson could include rebuilding the community’s trust in the court. “I hope and pray I’ll be able to restore it by being myself and continuing to put the community first,” he said. “My intent is always to put the county first and do what I think is right.” Patterson resigned about three weeks ago, just before he was to face a trial at the Alabama Court of the Judiciary. Patterson also faces a criminal trial on felony charges of theft and abuse of power. He’s accused of using the judgeship to steal from juvenile court funds and faces allegations of theft from his time as an attorney. Patterson has pleaded not guilty. West will serve the remainder of Patterson’s term, which runs until 2022. West can then seek election to the position. “I’m really excited about getting to continue serving Limestone County,” he said. Republished with permission of the Associated Press.
Doug Patterson Limestone County District judge charged with theft, ethics violation resigns
Former Limestone County District Judge Doug Patterson announced he would be stepping down effective July 3.
