Fabe did not participate in Judicial Council vote

To the editor:

In the June 16, 2014, opinion piece concerning the Judicial Council’s recommendation that Judge Estelle receive a “no” vote on the ballot for retention, there were a number of factual errors. Chief Justice Dana Fabe of the Alaska Supreme Court participated in the Judicial Council meeting, but did not vote because the council members voted unanimously, 5-0, to issue a “no” recommendation. All members appointed by the Governor and both attorney members who participated agreed on the “no” recommendation. On June 9, the Chief Justice recused herself from the Supreme Court’s upcoming deliberations on the issue of what discipline Judge Estelle should receive. She will not be involved in any of the court’s discussions or in deciding the consequences of Judge Estelle’s conduct.

Christine Johnson

Administrative Director

Alaska Court System