Area News Headlines
These news headlines brought to you by these fine sponsors:
Federal Judge Is Benched Following A Drunk Driving Conviction
Russ Survance
Fri, 25 Sep 2026 11:31:28 EDT
 |
click on the picture to enlarge
|
">
A federal judge based in Bay City will remain off the bench for nearly another year following a drunk-driving conviction.
U.S. District Judge Thomas Ludington will remain on paid leave until September 1st, 2027, under an order resolving judicial misconduct and disability complaints stemming from an October 2025 crash in Emmet County.
Authorities reported Ludington had a blood-alcohol level of .27 following the crash - more than 3x's Michigan's legal driving limit. He pleaded no contest to operating while intoxicated in April and was sentenced to probation in May. That probation was terminated early on September 1st after he complied with its conditions.
The 72 year old has agreed to continue treatment for alcohol use disorder and undergo regular and random alcohol testing. He will also take senior status before returning to judicial duties, meaning he will no longer occupy a full-time active judgeship.
Ludington has served on the federal bench since 2006.
