Pa. judge faces conduct hearing over behavior

ALLENTOWN, Pa. - May 31, 2011

The review of Lehigh County Magisterial District Judge Maryesther Merlo's conduct is scheduled to begin Monday in Philadelphia. She was charged in November with violating conduct rules and the state constitution.

The Judicial Conduct Board says Merlo was frequently late for court or failed to show up entirely. She is also accused of placing bizarre requirements on the defendants she sentenced.

Merlo's attorney tells The Morning Call of Allentown the judge's actions will be put "in the proper perspective" during this week's trial.

Merlo has been suspended with pay since December.

---

Information from: The Morning Call, http://www.mcall.com

Copyright © 2024 WPVI-TV. All Rights Reserved.