Florida Judge Involved in Fracas Returns to Bench

A Florida judge accused of punching an assistant public defender during an altercation outside the courtroom has issued a public apology as he prepares to return to the bench after a leave of absence.
 
Florida Today reports that Brevard County Judge John C. Murphy wrote a letter of apology to the county's residents on Sunday. He wrote that his actions on June 2 may have "tarnished the reputation of the entire judiciary."
 
Following the incident with Andrew Weinstock, Murphy took a paid leave of absence and received anger management counseling. He was expected to return to the bench Monday morning.
 
A court spokeswoman says Murphy will now handle civil cases. He'll work mainly in his chambers at the Titusville Courthouse unless there's a  trial or hearing involving multiple parties.