A Marion County judge is on leave and under investigation by the state’s Commission on Judicial Fitness and Disability after an alleged alcohol-fueled, sexist tirade at a judicial conference in Central Oregon. The incident occurred on April 27 at Sunriver Resort, where witnesses reported that Judge Channing Bennett appeared intoxicated and used vulgar language during a social hour.

Investigation and Safety Concerns

Three female judges from the Marion County bench have expressed concerns about their safety around Bennett, citing his verbal attack and the fact that he is known to carry a firearm. Their concerns intensified when a loaded, unsecured handgun was discovered attached to the underside of Bennett’s desk in his courthouse chambers in Salem.

Internal records and threat assessment notes show that another judge intervened to retrieve Bennett’s gun and render it safe after learning it was stored unsecured and in violation of county rules. The weapon’s location and condition prompted additional safety reviews within the courthouse.

The fallout from Bennett’s conduct is now affecting how criminal cases are handled locally. Marion County District Attorney Paige Clarkson has requested that Bennett not hear criminal matters involving her office while the investigation continues.

Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.