Former Casey Anthony Prosecutor Resigns Amid Ethics Controversy

Judge Jeffrey Ashton, once known for his role as a prosecutor in the high-profile Casey Anthony trial, has stepped down from the bench amid mounting ethics charges. The Florida Judicial Qualifications Commission (JQC) dismissed the charges on January 2, 2025, following Ashton's agreement to resign from judicial office and forgo any future judicial roles, including as a senior judge.

Ashton faced multiple accusations of judicial misconduct, including allegations of shouting at individuals in the courtroom, exhibiting bias against certain attorneys, and failing to maintain the decorum expected of a judge. While the JQC initially pursued charges against him, Ashton’s voluntary departure from the judiciary on December 31, 2024, prompted the dismissal of the charges prior to a final hearing.

The JQC’s notice of dismissal, filed with the Florida Supreme Court, cited Ashton’s resignation and his written commitment not to seek future judicial positions as the basis for halting further proceedings. The move effectively closes a chapter of controversy that has overshadowed Ashton’s judicial career in recent years.

Ashton gained national attention as part of the prosecution team in the Casey Anthony case, which ended with Anthony’s acquittal on charges of murdering her young daughter. Following the trial, Ashton transitioned to judicial service.
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For more details, visit Florida Supreme Court’s docket.