Michigan Judicial Commission Files Misconduct Complaint Against Jackson County Judge

Judge Thomas D. Wilson of Jackson County, Michigan, faces a formal misconduct complaint by the Michigan Judicial Tenure Commission alleging multiple serious ethical violations including public intoxication, sexual harassment of female judges and attorneys, and undisclosed conflicts of interest with lawyers appearing before him. Wilson admitted under oath to abusing alcohol from approximately 2013 to 2021, at times coming to court intoxicated and inviting county employees to drink with him, including on Election Day. The complaint details graphic sexual comments Wilson made to colleagues and inappropriate remarks about their appearances, alongside allegations that he failed to recuse himself from cases involving personal or business relationships, including accepting free legal services without disclosure. Additionally, Wilson is accused of improperly intervening in legal proceedings involving himself, family members, and defendants in his court, such as contacting law enforcement to influence a domestic violence case and attempting to alter child support orders in his own divorce. The complaint also highlights delays in case rulings and failure to comply with appellate court directives. Wilson has 14 days to respond, with his attorney asserting confidence in clearing his name but declining media commentary.