NEWS RELEASE: Updated Release Regarding Superior Court Judge Hancock

Published on March 27, 2023

NEWS RELEASE

Superior Court in Yavapai County
Contact: Julie Malinowski, Deputy Court Administrator
Phone: 928-771-3168
Email: jmalinowski@courts.az.gov

March 27, 2023

UPDATED RELEASE REGARDING SUPERIOR COURT JUDGE CELÉ HANCOCK

YAVAPAI COUNTY, ARIZONA – On Wednesday, March 22, 2023, Arizona Supreme Court Chief Justice Robert Brutinel issued Administrative Order No. 2023-55. https://www.azcourts.gov/Portals/22/2023-55.pdf. Based on this order, all cases currently assigned to Division 5 of the Superior Court will be reassigned to judges in the Seasonal Pro Tem Division. Further, the Commission on Judicial Conduct will conduct any investigation it believes appropriate.

Judge John Napper has also issued the following statement:

“As the Presiding Judge of Yavapai County, I want the people to know that the integrity of the courts is the highest priority for every judge in this county. Your Superior Court continues to serve the interests of justice with distinction, honor, and integrity. These are and continue to be our top priorities.

It is a foundational principle of this great nation that no person is above the law. This rule applies equally to judges. I am certain this criminal case will proceed as it would with anyone else. I also believe the Commission on Judicial Conduct will conduct a complete and thorough investigation. The Yavapai County Superior Court is prepared to assist and cooperate with the Commission to complete its work.”

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Rules of the Supreme Court of Arizona, Rule 81. Arizona Code of Judicial Conduct.

Rules of the Commission on Judicial Conduct

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