Philadelphia judge removed from duty for allegedly trying to influence a colleague’s decision in a case.

A Philadelphia judge has been placed on administrative leave following allegations of misconduct related to a criminal case. Common Pleas Court Judge Scott DiClaudio was removed from his position after a fellow judge accused him of attempting to sway a decision regarding a sentence for a defendant in a case. Sources within the criminal justice system revealed that this incident occurred in late June, leading to an ongoing investigation by the Pennsylvania Judicial Conduct Board.

Reports indicate that Judge DiClaudio approached Judge Zachary Shaffer regarding a case involving a defendant connected to Philadelphia rapper Meek Mill. The conversation reportedly involved DiClaudio presenting a piece of paper with the case number and the defendant’s name, and suggesting that Shaffer would render a favorable sentence. DiClaudio later allegedly tore up the paper, indicating he expected the judge to “do the right thing” in this matter. Following this encounter, Judge Shaffer recused himself from the case and filed a complaint that initiated the investigation by the judicial conduct board.

It remains unclear why Judge DiClaudio sought to influence a decision concerning the defendant, Dwayne Jones, a fitness trainer who had pleaded guilty to multiple counts of illegal gun possession in connection with a fatal incident. Although prosecutors deemed the shooting justifiable in self-defense, Jones was facing significant sentencing guidelines due to prior felony convictions. Following Shaffer’s recusal, the case was reassigned to Judge J. Scott O’Keefe, who ultimately sentenced Jones to 11½ to 23 months of house arrest along with three years of probation.

DiClaudio, who was elected to the bench in November 2015, has previously faced scrutiny from the judicial conduct board. Past allegations against him include failing to report debts and misusing his judicial position to promote his wife’s business. Despite these issues, many attorneys commend his legal expertise and the efficiency with which he handles complex post-conviction appeals.

A spokesperson for the courts confirmed that DiClaudio was placed on leave effective June 25, while the judicial conduct board noted that its investigations are confidential and typically not disclosed unless formal charges are filed. DiClaudio has denied any wrongdoing, asserting that he has not attempted to influence the outcome of any cases. His attorney emphasized the judge’s respected reputation within the legal community, insisting that allegations against him are unfounded.

As the investigation unfolds, the Philadelphia judicial system continues to navigate the implications of this situation amidst broader conversations about judicial ethics and transparency.