An assistant U.S. attorney in Alaska recently came forward with shocking allegations against then-U.S. District Judge Joshua M. Kindred, revealing a disturbing series of events that culminated in her feeling “completely powerless.” The prosecutor claimed that Judge Kindred had requested nude photos from her while simultaneously making inappropriate comments about holding grudges and using his influence to assist her in securing a federal judgeship.
The revelations came to light after Senior U.S. District Judge Marco A. Hernández unsealed documents related to a cyberstalking case presided over by Kindred. The assistant U.S. attorney, referred to as “AUSA 1” in the documents, detailed her troubling interactions with Kindred in a letter dated August. This letter, prompted by Kindred’s sudden resignation in July and subsequent legal motions, painted a disturbing picture of coercion and abuse of power.
According to Hernández’s order granting a new trial in the cyberstalking case, the nature of Kindred’s relationship with AUSA 1 raised significant concerns about potential impropriety. The judge’s behavior towards the prosecutor, including sending inappropriate texts and pressuring her to send nude photos, was deemed highly troubling and prompted further investigation.
The defense brief, which referenced the prosecutor’s letter, shed light on the power dynamic at play between Kindred and AUSA 1. The prosecutor described feeling trapped and believing she had no choice but to comply with Kindred’s demands due to the fear of career repercussions and personal harm. This disturbing revelation underscored the abuse of authority and manipulation exhibited by the former judge.
Kindred’s abrupt resignation in July, following allegations of creating a hostile work environment and engaging in inappropriate relationships with his law clerks, further highlighted the severity of the situation. The judicial council of the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco requested his resignation after an internal investigation revealed multiple instances of misconduct.
The prosecutor’s courageous decision to come forward with her story serves as a stark reminder of the pervasive issue of abuse of power within the legal system. Her account sheds light on the challenges faced by individuals in positions of vulnerability when confronted with abuse from those in positions of authority. As the cyberstalking case proceeds with a new trial, the repercussions of Kindred’s actions continue to reverberate throughout the legal community, prompting reflection on the importance of accountability and transparency in upholding the integrity of the judiciary.