Assistant Public Defender Resigns with Return of Judge John Murphy

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A couple of months ago, Brevard County Judge John C. Murphy and assistant public defender Andrew Weinstock got into a courtroom fight. The incident began verbally and then carried over into a hallway, which is when it became physical.

Now, Weinstock has decided to resign from his position since Judge Murphy has been reinstated to the bench, according to WTSP. Weinstock released a statement that said he disagrees with Public Defender Blaise Trettis’ support of Judge Murphy returning to the bench.

  

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“I am thankful that I have had the opportunity over the years to practice law with the many outstanding attorneys who have worked for the Public Defender,” Weinstock’s resignation letter read. “As you are aware, I do not agree with your position on Judge Murphy returning to the bench. As such, I hereby tender my resignation, effective immediately.”

Following the incident, Murphy went on a four-week paid leave of absence. He also issued a public apology and was reassigned to civil cases in Titusville when he returned to the bench.

“As a criminal defense attorney, I think it would be hypocritical to argue that Judge Murphy should not be given a chance at redemption as a county court judge,” Trettis said. “Defense attorneys routinely plead that their clients should be given a second chance when their bad behavior is uncharacteristic of who they are and is an isolated instance in their life.”