Judge Bronwyn Miller’s texts to Miami-Dade State Attorney reveal attempts to influence a major criminal case, threatening her impartiality and sparking an ethical firestorm.
At a Glance
- Judge Miller’s texts pressuring State Attorney Fernandez Rundle disclosed in a criminal case.
- Texts reveal attempts to influence Corey Smith’s 20-year-old murder conviction.
- Miller’s messages criticize judicial figures and advocate for Judge Wolfson’s removal.
- Miller refrains from public comment, citing legal ethics advice.
Judicial Ethics Under Fire
Judge Bronwyn Miller finds herself embroiled in controversy after text messages revealed potentially compromising communications with Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle. These texts sought to influence the handling of a major case, particularly the retrial of Corey Smith, convicted for murder two decades ago. Accusers point to Miller’s alleged lack of impartiality, a critical component of judicial integrity. Legal experts emphasize that Miller’s ability to serve as an impartial judge is now under severe scrutiny.
The texts indicate a close relationship with Rundle and negative opinions towards other legal professionals involved in the case. Miller suggested removing Circuit Judge Andrea Ricker Wolfson due to unfavorable rulings. In her messages, Miller criticized several individuals, including defense attorneys and prosecutor Michael Von Zamft, showing a level of bias that is incompatible with judicial duties.
#BREAKING Miami-Dade State Attorney CORRUPTION SCANDAL WIDENS: SECRET TEXTS reveal Judge Bronwyn Miller criticizing @KathyFndzRundle mishandling derailed death penalty case that launched Miller’s legal career — rips judges and defense lawyers #BecauseMiami https://t.co/McCuxzQrma
— Because Miami (@BecauseMiami) November 11, 2024
Manipulating the Judicial Process
Miller’s text exchanges described her request for edits to court documents and suggestions for removing other judges from the case. Fernandez Rundle’s decision to waive the death penalty in Smith’s case indicates the prosecution’s doubt about the fairness of the original trial. Smith’s attorneys argued that his initial conviction was flawed, leading to calls for a reduced sentence, further complicating the judicial landscape.
Despite the seriousness of these accusations, Miller has chosen not to publicly comment, citing legal advice. Her defense in remaining silent acknowledges the ongoing scrutiny and potential consequences these revelations could bring upon her career.
Venomous texts by Miami appellate judge Bronwyn Miller come back to bite her in crumbling death penalty case. https://t.co/9CP8OwLSu5 @MiamiHerald @BrittanyWallman @ChuckRabin @AFMiller2021 @FACDL_Miami @FLDeathPenalty @FADPorg #CoreySmith
— Robert Dunham (@RDunhamDP) November 11, 2024
Pursuing Justice or Overreach?
The texts also unveiled Miller’s distrust towards selected prosecutors and judges, as Miller criticized decisions and suggested political motivations. This implies an unsettling dynamic in Miami’s judicial system in which political and personal opinions could undermine judicial processes. Corey Smith’s once-assured death sentence now faces reconsideration under a cloud of legal and ethical controversy.
Potential conflicts of interest, as revealed in these texts, highlight the need for accountability in the judiciary.
