HOUSTON, TX – The legal community is abuzz with concern and speculation as Judge Kelli Johnson, one of Harris County’s most esteemed jurists, has been missing from her courtroom for nearly a month. Johnson, known for her tenure at the 178th District Courthouse in Houston, has not appeared in court since May 1, leaving a significant gap in the judicial process.
Judge’s absence and concerns
A court spokesperson has stated that Judge Johnson is “out for personal matters,” yet the circumstances remain opaque. An anonymous courthouse staffer expressed serious concerns about her well-being, describing her behavior as “manic” and suggesting she might be a danger to herself and others, as reported by ABC13.
According to a May 4 police report, Judge Johnson had recent contact with law enforcement regarding an incident near her residence. The report noted a “disturbance/CIT,” indicating a crisis intervention situation, but details remain unclear.
Who is Judge Kelli Johnson?
Judge Johnson has a distinguished career, having served Harris County both as a judge and a former Assistant District Attorney. Notably, she is the first openly gay female judge elected in Harris County. Her website underscores her commitment to addressing racial and ethnic disparities in the justice system and highlights her experience presiding over a range of cases, from state jail felonies to capital murder.
Recent high-profile cases
Shortly before her disappearance, Judge Johnson presided over the trial of Brian Coulter, who was found guilty of capital murder for beating his girlfriend’s eight-year-old son to death in 2020. Johnson delivered a swift verdict, condemning the horrific nature of the crime. Additionally, she oversaw the case of AJ Armstrong, who was convicted of murdering his parents in 2016 after two mistrials.
In Judge Johnson’s absence, retired Judge Jim Wallace has taken over some of her cases, beginning with presiding over a trial last week. The legal community awaits further updates on Judge Johnson’s situation, hoping for her safe return and resolution of this troubling mystery.