Matter of Starcher

This case is before this Court upon the recommendation of the West Virginia Judicial Hearing Board that Judge Larry Starch-er of the Circuit Court of Monongalia County be admonished for a violation of the West Virginia Code of Judicial Conduct. The violation concerns an ex parte communication initiated by Judge Stareher with an assistant prosecuting attorney concerning an ongoing criminal trial in Monongalia County. Judge Stareher, pursuant to Rule 4.9 of the West Virginia Rules of Judicial Disciplinary Procedure, filed a consent to the recommendation. However, for the reasons expressed…