Texas Judge 'Did Nothing Wrong' in Beating Video
The week's supply of internet indignation has undoubtedly been aimed at the Texas judge beating video and its star, Hon. William Adams.
The viral video shows the Aransas County family court judge as he whips the legs of his then 16-year-old daughter, Hillary Adams. While she yells for him to stop, he threatens to beat her into submission.
An investigation has been opened, but some wonder whether the Texas judge will be prosecuted, and whether he will be able to keep his job.
Because the Texas judge beating video was filmed in 2004, Adams probably won't face charges for the exact incident. The statute of limitations for misdemeanor child abuse is 2 years, while felony abuse is either 5 or 10.
However, charges may still be brought if the investigation uncovers more recent abuse, particularly of his youngest daughter.
Even if he is not charged with child abuse, William Adams could still lose his judgeship. This is because judges are subject to a strict code of ethical standards.
More specifically, the Texas Code of Judicial Conduct states that a judge must act in a manner that promotes public confidence in the judiciary. His private activities should also not cast reasonable doubt on his ability to act impartially.
Adams is a family court judge. He has shown no remorse for the video, saying that it "looks worse than it is." He also states that he was disciplining his daughter for stealing.
She had illegally downloaded music and games on the internet, according to the Los Angeles Times.
The state's judicial committee will ultimately decide what to do about the Texas judge beating video. But if the public has its way, it appears as though Williams Adams won't be a judge for much longer.
Related Resources:
- Texas Judge Caught on Video Beating Daughter 'Needs Help' (Associated Press)
- Child Abuse (FindLaw)
- Legalese 101: What's a Statute of Limitations? (FindLaw's Law & Daily Life)