Judge Upholds Removal of Connecticut's Former Chief Public Defender

TaShun Bowden-Lewis was fired for misconduct after a state investigation

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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A state judge has upheld the decision by the Public Defender Services Commission to remove TaShun Bowden-Lewis from her role as Connecticut's former chief public defender. Bowden-Lewis, who was the first Black person to hold the position, was accused of mistreating employees, insubordination, and other misconduct during her two-year tenure. The judge rejected Bowden-Lewis' claims that the removal process violated her constitutional rights and misapplied state law.

Why it matters

Bowden-Lewis' removal highlights the challenges and scrutiny that public officials can face, especially those in high-profile leadership roles. The case also raises questions about workplace conduct, due process, and the oversight of state agencies and commissions.

The details

In 2022, Bowden-Lewis made history as the first Black chief public defender in Connecticut. However, concerns about her management style and workplace conduct prompted the Public Defender Services Commission to launch an investigation in 2023. The resulting report cited repeated concerns from employees regarding bullying, marginalization of staff, and improper personnel decisions, though it did not find her conduct amounted to an illegal hostile work environment. The commission then issued a reprimand, placed Bowden-Lewis on leave, and ultimately charged her with 16 violations of agency policies before voting to remove her in 2024.

  • In 2022, Bowden-Lewis became the first Black chief public defender in Connecticut.
  • In 2023, the Public Defender Services Commission hired a law firm to investigate complaints about Bowden-Lewis' management.
  • In October 2023, the commission issued a letter of reprimand to Bowden-Lewis.
  • In March 2024, the commission formally charged Bowden-Lewis with 16 violations and notified her of a hearing.
  • In April 2024, Bowden-Lewis had a hearing where she could defend herself, but she did not call any witnesses other than herself.

The players

TaShun Bowden-Lewis

The former chief public defender of Connecticut, who was the first Black person to hold the position.

Public Defender Services Commission

The state commission that oversees the public defender's office and voted to remove Bowden-Lewis from her role.

Judge Matthew Budzik

The state Superior Court judge who upheld the commission's decision to remove Bowden-Lewis.

Thomas W. Bucci

The attorney representing Bowden-Lewis in her appeal of the commission's decision.

Richard N. Palmer

The retired Supreme Court Justice who served as the chairman of the Public Defender Services Commission during the investigation and removal of Bowden-Lewis.

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What they’re saying

“The court rejects each of Ms. Bowden-Lewis' arguments. The court holds that the hearing process followed by the commission complies with federal constitutional due process standards and that the decision to remove Ms. Bowden-Lewis for just cause complied with Connecticut law and is supported by substantial evidence in the record.”

— Judge Matthew Budzik, State Superior Court Judge (greenwichtime.com)

What’s next

Bowden-Lewis has a pending civil rights lawsuit against the commission members in federal court, and she has also filed an appeal with the state Commission of Human Rights and Opportunities.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of proper oversight and accountability for public officials, even those in high-profile leadership roles. It also underscores the need for clear policies and procedures to address workplace misconduct allegations in a fair and transparent manner.