U.S. Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights, Harmeet Dhillon, has filed a motion seeking the recusal of Atlanta U.S. District Judge Eleanor Ross. The request follows Ross’s illegal attendance at a Democratic fundraiser for Fulton County District Attorney Fani Willis. This action suggests a lack of impartiality on Ross’s part.
Ross’s challenges extend further. Reports indicate she engaged in extramarital sexual relations with Atlanta deputy police chief Kelley Collier in her chambers during work hours. This affair, known to her staff, led to claims of lying and retaliating against those who reported her.
Ross received a private reprimand for this misconduct, which many consider inadequate. Critics argue she should resign or face impeachment by Congress. They also advocate for her prosecution for lying to federal investigators.
Given that Atlanta Police Department cases often appear before Ross, the situation raises concerns. Although she did not preside over Collier’s division’s cases during their affair, the potential for conflict of interest existed.
Ross, married to DeKalb County Circuit Judge Brian Ross, conducted the affair near her law clerks, leading to a report by a former clerk. These activities spanned from 2023 to 2025.
In another issue, Ross attended a political event celebrating DA Willis’s primary victory. Ethical standards prevent judges from attending such events, given the political implications.
Upon being questioned by Eleventh Circuit U.S. Chief Judge William Pryor, Ross denied the allegations. Critics highlight her false statements as unacceptable deception.
The Judicial Council’s lenient treatment of Ross included a secret reprimand, prompting calls for transparency. Public identification of an abusive judge is deemed crucial.
Recent discussions suggest Congress enact legislation for an independent inspector general for the federal judiciary. Ross’s confession does not mitigate her misconduct, but she will forgo serving as chief judge.
Despite the scandal, Ross continues to occupy her position with full benefits. Calls for her resignation echo others who faced similar charges and opted to resign.
U.S. Senator Jon Ossoff of Georgia has been notably silent on the issue. Ross’s misconduct, impacting the Northern District of Georgia, raises questions of accountability and transparency for disciplinary authorities.
Ross’s presence on the federal bench remains controversial. Critics urge her resignation and, failing that, impeachment. Further investigation by the Justice Department into her alleged false statements and obstruction is recommended.
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