Judge Murphy Announces Retirement

From therepublic.com - Judge Michael Murphy announced Wednesday that he will retire from the bench, effective Feb. 24. Murphy was indicted last year on bribery charges, including a bribing a witness. Murphy says he's leaving the bench due to his age, health and legal case so that the division can be fully staffed for the benefit of district citizens. According to records, Murphy told a judicial candidate that in order to get a seat on the bench, she would have to pay a political activist. That activist would reportedly funnel the money to then-New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson, who has denied the allegations.
Court documents show Murphy's decision to resign doesn't conclude that he's admitting guilt to the charges. Murphy says he's leaving the bench due to his age, health and legal case so that the division can be fully staffed for the benefit of district citizens.

Judge Murphy Announces Retirement