Lawrence County Judge Faces Discipline Charges for Alleged Marijuana Use

The Indiana Commission on Judicial Qualifications has filed two counts of misconduct against Judge John M. Plummer III.

Apr. 17, 2026 at 6:51pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a wooden gavel with metallic accents, sharply lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conveying a sense of authority and gravity.The harsh lighting and stark contrast of this close-up image of a judge's gavel symbolizes the gravity of the disciplinary charges filed against Lawrence County Judge John M. Plummer III.Indianapolis Today

The Indiana Commission on Judicial Qualifications has filed disciplinary charges against Lawrence County Superior Court I Judge John M. Plummer III, alleging that he used and possessed marijuana, which is a violation of the Code of Judicial Conduct. The charges reportedly stemmed from an investigation into allegations that Plummer "behaved erratically and in an agitated manner" on "several" occasions.

Why it matters

Allegations of judicial misconduct, particularly related to substance abuse, can undermine public trust in the legal system and the impartiality of the courts. The disciplinary process aims to uphold ethical standards and ensure judges maintain the integrity of their office.

The details

The Indiana Commission on Judicial Qualifications, a seven-member panel that investigates alleged ethical misconduct by judges, has charged Judge Plummer with two counts of misconduct. The charges stem from an investigation into allegations that Plummer "behaved erratically and in an agitated manner" on multiple occasions. Plummer is currently not hearing any cases, and the Supreme Court will have the final authority to determine if any judicial misconduct occurred.

  • The disciplinary charges were filed on April 17, 2026.

The players

John M. Plummer III

The Lawrence County Superior Court I judge who is facing disciplinary charges for alleged marijuana use and erratic behavior.

Indiana Commission on Judicial Qualifications

A seven-member panel that investigates alleged ethical misconduct by judges in Indiana and has filed the charges against Judge Plummer.

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What’s next

The Supreme Court will determine the outcome of the disciplinary charges against Judge Plummer.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of maintaining high ethical standards among members of the judiciary, as allegations of substance abuse and erratic behavior can undermine public trust in the legal system. The disciplinary process aims to ensure judges uphold the integrity of their office.