Friday, August 20, 2004
MAY IT PLEASE THE COURT
By Stockton
Giving new meaning to the phrase 'May it Please the Court', an Oklahoma Judge has resigned from the bench.
Thompson called the situation, "a stroke of bad luck."
If the charges are founded, Thompson will appeal.
"Overruled, Madam Prosecutor!" 
Thompson's attorney plots strategy
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By Stockton
Giving new meaning to the phrase 'May it Please the Court', an Oklahoma Judge has resigned from the bench.
OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. (Reuters) - An Oklahoma judge facing removal over charges that he masturbated and used a device for enhancing erections under his robes during trials said on Wednesday he would retire from the bench.Thompson's attorney, Roy "Balls" McCracken denounced the charges facing his client. "Being a judge is a hard, stressful job. My client just wanted to blow off a little steam. The charges are preposterous, discriminating and intimidating. Nothing in the Code of Judicial Conduct or the Oklahoma Trial Court Rules mandate that a judge must remain flaccid during a trial."
Creek County District Judge Donald Thompson, 57, wrote to Oklahoma Gov. Brad Henry resigning effective Sept. 1, a move that will allow him to retire with a full pension.
A former state representative and a judge for 22 years, Thompson was accused by state Attorney General Drew Edmondson of using a "penis pump" to enhance erections during trials and exposing himself to a court reporter several times while masturbating on the bench.
"I have greatly enjoyed my public service and offer my gratitude for the public trust reposed in me during the terms I served," he said.
Thompson called the situation, "a stroke of bad luck."
If the charges are founded, Thompson will appeal.
