Judicial Complaint Filed Against Judge McConnell Amid Conflict of Interest Allegations
Washington, D.C. – America First Legal (AFL) has formally submitted a judicial complaint against Rhode Island Federal Judge John McConnell, Jr. to Chief Judge David Barron of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit. The complaint raises concerns about serious conflicts of interest and potential judicial ethics violations related to McConnell’s role in the ongoing case of New York v. Trump, where 21 states and the District of Columbia aim to block a temporary freeze on federal funding.
In February, McConnell ordered that taxpayer dollars continue flowing to states, including funding to a Rhode Island nonprofit organization, Crossroads Rhode Island, on whose board he served for nearly two decades. In March, AFL highlighted these conflicts, calling for McConnell’s recusal and initiating an investigation.
The complaint outlines several allegations against McConnell, asserting that he has breached multiple Canons of Judicial Conduct and his fiduciary duties as a longtime board member. Key points include:
- A significant conflict of interest due to McConnell’s longstanding affiliation with Crossroads Rhode Island.
- Oversight of questionable property transactions involving fellow board members at inflated prices, raising concerns about the financial practices within the nonprofit.
- Links to historical public corruption scandals in Rhode Island, casting doubt on McConnell’s judgment.
- Allegations that Crossroads Rhode Island’s facilities have failed to adequately serve the homeless population, a duty McConnell was responsible for during his tenure.
AFL Senior Counsel Andrew Block emphasized the necessity for an objective investigation to restore public trust in the judicial system. “At a time when the public is losing faith in the integrity and independence of the judicial system, it is incumbent on the First Circuit to objectively investigate these allegations,” Block stated.
For more information on the complaint, visit America First Legal’s website and follow their social media for ongoing updates.
For press inquiries, contact press@aflegal.org.
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