Matter of Buford

This is a disciplinary proceeding brought by the Commission on Retirement, Removal and Discipline (Commission) pursuant to art. 5, sec. 27, Mo.Const., and Rule 12. Respondent is the circuit judge for the 37th judicial circuit which encompasses the counties of Howell, Shannon, Carter, and Oregon. The Commission found respondent violated the Supreme Court Rules, the Code of Judicial Conduct, and the statutes of the state of Missouri, and recommended that respondent be removed from office. This case is on review before this court pursuant to art. 5, sec. 27, Mo.Const., as amended 1970,1 and Rule…