Indiana Judge Accused of Misconduct in Ethics Complaint

An Indiana judge is facing ethics charges for alleged misconduct, including using a “game or jail” tactic, making inappropriate comments about domestic violence victims, and failing to maintain proper boundaries with court participants.

‘Super Bowl’ Neurochemicals Comment Sparks Outcry

Judge Matthew J. Elkin allegedly told a domestic violence victim that being beaten by their partner releases the same “neurochemicals” in the brain as Tom Brady winning the Super Bowl. “That’s why women don’t leave,” Elkin said, according to the complaint.

Judge Accused of ‘Game or Jail’ Tactic

In another incident, Elkin allegedly handcuffed a person seated next to a re-entry court participant and threatened to send the handcuffed individual to jail if the participant lied. Elkin later claimed this “game or jail” approach was meant to encourage truth-telling.

Alleged Inappropriate Remarks and Conduct

The 27-page complaint also accuses Elkin of:

• Telling a defendant they had “more convictions than the average child molester”

• Displaying a sign reading “Watching you dumb a- -” to a court participant

• Following court participants and staff outside the courtroom

• Providing special treatment to some participants, including housing and transportation

Judge’s Attorney Declines to Comment

Elkin’s lawyer, Jennifer Lukemeyer, did not respond to a request for comment from the ABA Journal. The Indiana Commission on Judicial Qualifications filed the complaint on March 26.

Charges Highlight Need for Judicial Ethics

The allegations against Elkin underscore the importance of maintaining proper judicial conduct and respecting ethical boundaries, experts say. “Judges are held to a higher standard,” notes Indiana University law professor Charles Geyh. “This kind of behavior erodes public trust in the justice system.”

Disciplinary Action Could Include Suspension, Removal

If the charges are substantiated, Elkin could face penalties ranging from a reprimand to suspension or removal from the bench. A hearing date has not yet been set.

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