LAS CRUCES -- A New Mexico district judge accused of bribery is resigning.

Judge Michael Murphy of Las Cruces announced Wednesday that he will retire from the bench, effective Feb. 24. The resignation was approved by the state Supreme Court as part of an agreement to end all disciplinary investigations of Murphy, who was also accused of making offensive and biased remarks to court employees.

The retirement, however, does not impact the criminal case pending against the former judge.

Murphy was indicted last year on felony bribery charges for allegedly telling a judicial candidate she needed to pay a political activist for consideration for the post.  A report accompanying the indictment alleged that money would then be funneled to then-New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson, who has denied the allegations.

In a statement, Murphy says he’s leaving the bench due to his age, health and legal case so that the division can be fully staffed for the benefit of district citizens.




© Copyright Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.