ANCRAM – Town Justice George Wittlinger of Ancram, accused of sexual misconduct by a female who was dating the judge’s son, has resigned during a state investigation into the allegations. Mid-Hudson News first reported on the allegations in the fall of 2020 and the story can be found HERE.
Wittlinger was accused of sexual abuse in a civil suit by his son’s then-girlfriend in 2020. The lawsuit triggered an investigation by the New York State Commission on Judicial Conduct for allegedly encouraging a minor to have sex with his teenage son, offering her gifts and money in exchange for sexual favors, as well as having the victim perform sexual acts on the judge.
The Commission told Wittlinger in December of 2021 that an investigation had been started. He was scheduled to appear for testimony on January 12, 2022. Rather than endure the inquiry, he resigned and left office on December 31, 2021.
Wittlinger, a non-attorney judge, has agreed to never seek or accept judicial office at any time in the future. His current term was in effect until December 31, 2023.
“Claims of sexual impropriety, particularly where they involve a judge and a minor, must be dealt with promptly as well as fairly, in order to maintain public confidence in the courts,” Commission Administrator Rober Tembeckjian said in a statement. “Whether or not such serious allegations lead to criminal or civil proceedings, the Judicial Conduct Commission will investigate and take appropriate disciplinary action. Effectuating a judge’s permanent departure from the bench is our most significant authority, and that happened here.”
A civil suit naming the judge and his son, filed by the victim, is still ongoing.
