Inquiry Concerning a Judge No. 13-344 Re: Susan B. Flood

In this case, we review the findings and recommendation of discipline of the Florida Judicial Qualifications Commission (JQC), recommending that Judge Susan B. Flood, Polk County Judge, receive the sanction of a public reprimand for violating Canons 1 and 2A of the Florida Code of Judicial Conduct. We have jurisdiction. See art. V, § 12, Fla. Const. For the reasons that follow, we approve the JQC’s findings and recommendation of discipline.

I. BACKGROUND

This action stems from charges filed against Judge Flood arising out of an inappropriate relationship with her bailiff, over whom she…