March 29th 2024.
Shelby County Criminal Court Judge Melissa Boyd found herself in a difficult situation when she tested positive for cocaine while out of custody. It was a tough turn of events for the judge who was initially released on a $5,000 bond. However, following a hearing, her bond was revoked, and she was booked into a Memphis jail on Mar. 27. This was because she had violated the conditions of her release, which included undergoing drug screening and refraining from drug use.
Boyd is facing accusations of coercing, influencing, or attempting to influence her former campaign manager, Lashanta Rudd, to lie under oath during an official proceeding after Boyd's 2022 election. At the time, Boyd had admitted to having a drug problem and was ordered to undergo treatment. In February 2024, prosecutors stated that Boyd had completed her drug treatment program, but two weeks later, she tested positive for cocaine and alcohol. This led to the prosecution seeking to have her bond removed.
During the hearing, Judge Roy Morgan, who presided over the case, expressed his disappointment, saying, "A lot of effort has been offered, and it's just not working. And that's sad, just so sad." Under state law, judges can face charges after receiving two public reprimands, and this is not the first time Boyd has faced such serious accusations. In May 2023, she was suspended for allegedly threatening an acquaintance, soliciting money using her judicial position, and substance abuse. The money in question was reportedly donated to a school where Boyd had posted a photo of herself in a judicial robe on social media.
Boyd's attorney, Carissa Shaw, believes that jail time is not the answer and that her client needs treatment. She stated, "We are just worried about the perception of those battling addiction and understand that this is a health crisis, not a punitive thing. It's not anything anyone should be ashamed of." The District Attorney General of the 28th District, Frederick Agee, has also expressed his willingness to work with Boyd's defense team to get her the help she needs. In fact, prosecutors have offered her a plea deal that would involve her undergoing long-term drug rehabilitation, including living in a sober living house.
Agee acknowledged that Boyd is a drug addict who needs help, and sometimes, the criminal justice system is the only way to get that help. As Boyd's trial is scheduled for April 24, her attorneys hope to discuss the terms of the plea deal with her beforehand. However, the Tennessee General Assembly is expected to vote on April 4 on whether to remove Boyd from her position as a judge. It is a difficult and unfortunate situation, but everyone involved is hoping to find a solution that will help Boyd overcome her addiction and get back on the right track.
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