Arkansas judge denies board's allegations he had sexual relationships with defendants

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – An Arkansas judge is denying allegations that he had inappropriate sexual relationships with defendants.

The Arkansas Judicial Discipline and Disability Commission filed administrative charges against part-time Cross County District Judge Joe Boeckmann last month. Boeckmann's attorney filed a seven-page denial of the allegations Tuesday afternoon.

The panel alleges Boeckmann showed preferential treatment to white men and allowed sentencing not recorded on court dockets, including picking up trash at his home. He's accused of taking inappropriate photographs of some defendants during those punishments.

Boeckmann denied all of the allegations in his response.

Executive Director David Sacchar says the commission will schedule a trial date and determine when motions are due in the case.