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A Lehigh County judge, Amy Zanelli, is facing misconduct charges after being accused of keeping a "Book of Grudges" in her office. The Pennsylvania Judicial Conduct Board filed these charges last week, alleging that Zanelli violated several conduct rules. The book, described as an ancient-looking leather-bound tome, contained disparaging remarks about litigants and attorneys, and was kept in a common area of her office.
In addition to the "Book of Grudges," Zanelli is accused of maintaining a sexually explicit desk calendar that made her staff uncomfortable. According to LehighValleyLive.com, the calendar contained inappropriate content, which contributed to a hostile work environment.
Zanelli is also charged with improper courtroom conduct. Allegedly, she forced a defendant to leave the courtroom during a victim's testimony and failed to allow cross-examination, violating the defendant's rights. Furthermore, Yahoo News reports that Zanelli frequently arrived late to court and conducted unauthorized Zoom hearings from home after a surgery in 2024.
Zanelli's attorney, Samuel Stretton, is negotiating with the judicial conduct board to enroll her in a diversionary program to address the charges. If proven guilty, Zanelli could face censure, suspension, or removal from the bench. The case will be heard by the state Court of Judicial Discipline.
Zanelli has served as a judge since January 2022, handling various cases, including preliminary hearings and civil actions. Prior to her judicial role, she worked in human services and real estate, and was the first openly gay Lehigh County commissioner.