Judge Gary Wilcox, a New Jersey Superior Court judge, is facing serious consequences after posting a series of TikTok videos filmed inside his judicial chambers and other courthouse locations.
The videos, which featured popular songs with explicit lyrics, including the phrase “Whoop my a–,” have raised concerns over judicial decorum and professionalism, NJ.com reports.
Wilcox, who serves in Bergen County, uploaded over 40 TikTok videos under a pseudonym between 2021 and 2023, some of which included him lip-syncing to rap lyrics and dancing in his robes. In some instances, the videos were filmed in the courthouse and chambers, sparking an investigation by the New Jersey Supreme Court Advisory Committee on Judicial Conduct.
One video, set to Rihanna’s “Jump,” showed Wilcox lip-syncing the line, “Whoop my a–.” Others featured lyrics about violence and drugs, leaving many questioning whether the content was appropriate for someone in his position.
“Judges are held to the highest standards of integrity and professionalism. Posting videos like these from within the courthouse undermines public confidence in the judiciary,” said Karen Sasso, a legal ethics expert.
Wilcox, however, defended the videos, explaining they were intended for entertainment purposes and to connect with younger generations. “I never meant to disrespect the court or diminish the importance of my role,” Wilcox said in a statement to the Advisory Committee.
But not everyone sees it that way. “It’s inappropriate for any judge to be associated with explicit content, let alone create it within a courthouse,” said Bergen County Bar Association president Michael Aron. “Judicial impartiality and decorum must be preserved.”
#Clique, was this judge doing too much or is he lit?