Boston Judge Accused Of Shielding Illegal

A Massachusetts inquiry has determined that Judge Shelley Richmond Joseph did not intentionally assist an undocumented immigrant in evading arrest by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

The investigation found that while she did not knowingly help the man escape, her actions inadvertently added to the confusion surrounding the incident.

Hearing Officer Denis J. McInerney stated, “Judge Joseph did not know about — much less authorize — the escape plan. However, I find that she inadvertently created the appearance of impropriety and bias.”

During a court proceeding, Joseph allowed the defendant, Medina-Perez, to return to the courthouse lock-up, believing he needed to speak privately with his attorney.

Without her knowledge, the defense lawyer and a court officer later helped the defendant exit the courthouse through a rear door, bypassing ICE agents waiting in the lobby.

McInerney dismissed accusations that Joseph approved the escape but advised that she receive a public reprimand for conducting an off-the-record discussion that undermined public confidence in the judiciary.

Federal prosecutors dropped charges against Joseph in 2022 after she reported the incident herself and fully cooperated with the Massachusetts Commission on Judicial Conduct.