JCIO 08/25

A spokesperson for the Judicial Conduct Investigations Office said:

The Lady Chief Justice with the Lord Chancellor’s agreement has issued Dr Charles Jumbo JP with a reprimand after he expressed views which would likely cause offence towards a section of society, and which may cause doubt as to his independence and impartiality.

Facts

Magistrates sign a declaration and undertaking on appointment to be circumspect in their conduct and maintain the dignity, standing and good reputation of the magistracy at all times.

The London Conduct Advisory Committee carried out an investigation after three magistrates raised a complaint that they had heard Dr Jumbo express his personal views on homosexuality during a discussion in the retiring room, which made the magistrates feel concerned or uncomfortable.

Dr Jumbo’s representations

Dr Jumbo accepted that he had expressed his personal views during a conversation with colleagues in the retiring room. He expressed his regret for sharing his personal views and for any offence caused. He had thought it was a private discussion between colleagues. He denied that he was homophobic and confirmed that he was able to make decisions fairly and treat everyone without bias.

Disciplinary Panel’s findings

Following an investigation carried out under the Judicial Conduct (Magistrates) Rules 2023, a nominated committee member recommended that Dr Jumbo be given formal advice. The Lady Chief Justice and the Lord Chancellor exercised their discretion to refer the matter to a disciplinary panel to consider the complaint.

The disciplinary panel found that Dr Jumbo had shown a gross lack of insight into the seriousness of the matter, the negative impact on others and the potential consequences of holding these views as a serving magistrate.

The disciplinary panel concluded that Dr Jumbo’s personal views would cast doubt on his independence and impartiality and concluded that the public would now have limited confidence in Dr Jumbo as a magistrate. The disciplinary panel stated that while Dr Jumbo is entitled to hold his views as an individual, magistrates should not act in a way which could reduce respect for the magistracy or cast doubt on their independence, impartiality or integrity. The disciplinary panel recommended that Dr Jumbo be removed from office.

Decision

The Lady Chief Justice and the Lord Chancellor agreed with the disciplinary panel’s findings that Dr Jumbo’s actions amounted to misconduct. After careful consideration, they agreed to issue Dr Jumbo with the lesser sanction of a reprimand. In reaching their decision, they took into consideration Dr Jumbo’s long unblemished conduct record and his assurance that he would continue to make decisions fairly and without bias. Whilst Dr Jumbo is entitled to hold his own personal views, the reprimand underlined the importance of being mindful in sharing views, whilst acting in the capacity of a judicial office holder, which are likely to cause offence.

Notes for Editors

Media queries in relation to the JCIO should be made in the first instance to the Judicial Press Office - telephone 020 7073 4852 or via email - press.enquiries@judiciary.gsi.gov.uk

Sanctions for misconduct by judicial office-holders are set out in the Constitutional Reform Act 2005. They are, in order of severity: formal advice, formal warning, reprimand and removal from office.

For more information about the Office, including details on how to make a complaint against a judicial office holder, you can visit the JCIO website at: Judicial Conduct Investigations website