May 24, 2012
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) -- Should Tennessee judges undergo random drug testing?
"Yes," says Trey Dodge.
"No, no random testing. Only with just cause," says Phillip DeArmond.
State law agrees. Random drug testing is not required for sitting judges. Dodge wants to see the law changed.
"If you're going to have somebody rule on a case like that I believe they shouldn't be on crack, and not be under the influence," says Dodge.
It is concern shared by many after ex-judge Richard Baumgartner admitted his own drug addiction and resigned from the bench after pleading guilty to misconduct.
Ethics proponents differ on the benefits of random drug testing for judges. The public is also torn.
"If there is reason to suspect, sure. But otherwise, blanket testing, or random testing doesn't seem like a good idea," says DeArmond.
Even candidates for appointment to the bench by the governor can legally avoid drug testing.
"The TBI might be able to provide more information about what that background check involves. My understanding is there is not a drug screening included," says Laura Click of the Administrative Office of the Courts.
We contacted the Governor's Office and the TBI to ask if judges should receive random drug tests. Our emails have not been returned.
"What we do is spelled out in the statutes, so if there's changes that needs to be made that would be up to the legislature to do," said Click.
