A New York judge who made headlines for a shirtless meltdown over a parking spot involving a physical altercation with neighbors and law enforcement is set to be replaced after not being reappointed to the bench.
Judge Mark Grisanti, serving as an acting state Supreme Court justice in Buffalo’s 8th District since 2018, was notably absent from the list of 25 judicial nominees submitted by Gov. Kathy Hochul for consideration by the state Senate Judiciary Committee.
Despite his term having expired last July, Grisanti continued as a “holdover” in his position until a new judge is instated, according to a spokesperson for commission chair Sen. Brad Hoylman-Sigal.
The saga began on June 23, 2020, when Buffalo police responded to a dispute at Grisanti’s residence, where tensions had escalated over a perceived infringement on his driveway by neighbors Joseph Mele, 69, and Gina Mele, 57. An intense confrontation ensued, resulting in a physical altercation involving both families.
During the altercation, Grisanti’s wife, Maria, was handcuffed and subdued, prompting the shirtless judge to aggressively confront responding officers and boast of his connections to local authorities.
While the Erie County District Attorney’s Office opted not to press charges after a thorough review, the incident caught the attention of the New York State Commission on Judicial Conduct. In April, the commission voted to censure Grisanti for his actions, citing “especially poor judgment” and criticism for engaging in legal matters involving an attorney who had financial dealings with him.
Despite mounting scrutiny, Grisanti’s attorney, Terrence Connors, defended his client, portraying him as a respected and proficient judge who has garnered support from legal professionals for his continued service on the bench.
As the controversy surrounding Judge Grisanti’s behavior unfolds, questions linger over his future in the judiciary and the ramifications of his highly publicized altercation.
Full bodycam below: