Judge Who Punched Attorney Returning to Bench

A Florida judge accused of punching an assistant public defender during an altercation outside a courtroom is returning to the bench but in a different capacity.

Brevard County Court Judge John Murphy returns to the bench on Monday. But instead of hearing criminal cases, he will handle civil cases.

Chief Judge John Harris said Friday that the reassignment isn't a form of discipline.

He says Murphy has been receiving anger management counseling since the altercation earlier this month.

Murphy allegedly hit assistant public defender Andrew Weinstock outside a courtroom after the two exchanged words over whether his client could have a speedy trial.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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