Ousted Delaware Judge Gets to Keep His Pension

Delaware judge who's being booted from the bench will still be allowed to collect his state pension.

A Sussex County judge who tried to establish a romantic relationship with a female attorney who often appeared in his courtroom is being stripped of his job but will be allowed to collect his state pension of $85,000 a year.

A judicial panel ruled late last week that Family Court Judge John Henriksen will be removed from his post on Nov. 2, one day after his 12-year pension entitlement vests.

Henriksen also was ordered to pay the woman's therapy bills and most of her attorney fees.

Authorities say Henriksen continued to hear cases involving the attorney even after expressing romantic feelings toward her. He also advised her on preparing a legal memorandum in a case he was hearing.

An examining board concluded that Henriksen's acts constituted willful misconduct and not mere error in judgment.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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