Press Release: Judge Tim Sweeney Admonished for Conduct on Child Protective Services
CHARLESTON — Judge Tim Sweeney of the Third Judicial Circuit has received a formal admonishment from the West Virginia Judicial Investigation Commission (JIC). The censure stems from comments Sweeney made regarding issues within the state’s Child Protective Services (CPS) while overseeing an ongoing child abuse case. The JIC cited multiple violations of the Code of Judicial Conduct related to public statements and social media activity but deemed formal discipline unnecessary due to Sweeney’s otherwise commendable record.
In February, Sweeney ordered key officials from the state Department of Human Services to report to court as CPS workers to address growing caseloads. After discussions with Department Secretary Alex Mayer, the order was retracted. Sweeney expressed his concern for children’s welfare, believing his actions were justified.
Testimonies during a hearing revealed CPS workers were overwhelmed with significant caseloads, provoking Sweeney to consider civil contempt charges to draw attention to the dire need for staffing. While Sweeney accepted the admonishment, he disagreed with the JIC’s decision, emphasizing the need for immediate reforms in CPS.
The JIC similarly admonished Judge Maryclaire Akers for comparable issues, underscoring ongoing concerns regarding staffing shortages and case management within West Virginia’s child welfare system.
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