Walter W. Jones

Canandaigua Town Court Judge Walter Jones, a justice since 1999, repeatedly used a racial slur while telling two colleagues a story in a courthouse parking lot after court on May 10, 2024, according to findings from the New York State Commission on Judicial Conduct. Days later, on May 15, Jones made racially insensitive remarks about a Black defendant appearing before him — after the defendant raised concerns about racial bias in her own case, Jones accused her of "playing the race card."

The Commission recommended Jones's removal from office. Commission Administrator Robert Tembeckjian didn't mince words: "The gratuitous use of a racial slur by a judge, repeatedly and with evident zeal, is shocking and disqualifying." The Commission added that Jones "appeared not to recognize the impact of his powerful position as a judge and the inappropriateness of using a racial slur." Jones, now 81, is contesting the recommendation. He remains suspended with pay while the New York State Court of Appeals reviews the Commission's determination.