The Council on Probate Judicial Conduct unanimously agreed to publicly censure Probate Judge Bryan T. Meccariello for judicial misconduct in his handling of Josephine Smoron's estate.
The five-member council was asked to investigate the matter after Smoron's heir Samuel Manzo complained that her conservator John T. Nugent had disinherited him by creating and funding two trusts giving all her land to three local churches. Meccariello approved the trusts at meeting only he attended on May 12, 2009.
"I'm not shrugging it off and unfortunately the underlying issues have to get resolved," Meccariello said, adding that he is working to mediate a settlement over the land.
Manzo's initial complaint implied a possible conspiracy between Meccariello, Nugent and the town to funnel Smoron's land to local developer Carl Verderame who needs it to build an $18 million sports arena. A purchase agreement between Nugent and Verderame would enrich the churches.
Meccariello said Tuesday's council finding, although harsh, vindicated him on the corruption charges.
Full Article and Source:
Probate Council Censures Meccariello
See Also:
Read the Report From the Council on Probate Conduct
Judge Bryan Meccariello Faces Misconduct Charges
I'm glad to see it!
ReplyDeleteHa! Bet he thot he'd get away with it!
ReplyDelete