Alabama Bar Suspends Former Judge's Law License

BREAKING NEWS

The Alabama Bar Association has suspended the law license of a former Mobile County circuit court judge for his alleged actions while serving on the bench.

Herman Thomas, who was indicted last week by a Mobile County grand jury, is accused of receiving sexual favors from Mobile Metro jail inmates in exchange for leniency in court.

Tony McClain of the Alabama State Bar tells News Five the organization's disciplinary commission made the decision this afternoon to suspend Thomas' license.

According to the two page order, evidence subitted to the organization "establishes probable cause to believe that Herman Young Thomas has engaged in improper sexual conduct with criminal defendants in violations of the law and the Alabama Rules of Professional Conduct."

Thomas is charged with 57 counts of kidnapping, sodomy, sexual abuse, extortion and ethics violations, but he could aslo face federal charges.

An FBI spokesperson confirmed Monday the federal agency is investigating possible violations under the Color of Law statute.

Angela Tobin says the FBI has been conducting a joint investigation with local law enforcement agencies but could not comment on when charges would be filed.

Thomas resigned from the bench in October 2007 when the allegations first surfaced. He was booked Friday in Mobile Metro jail, but quickly posted bond. His first court appearance has not been scheduled, according to the court clerk.

A hearing on the suspension of Thomas' law license will be scheduled within seven days of his request. To read the order for yourself click HERE.

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