Nevada Judge Retires After Court Grants Protective Order in Stalking Case
RENO, Nev. — Washoe County Judge Bridget Robb announced her retirement on Thursday shortly after a court granted a protective order against her in a stalking case involving an attorney she was accused of repeatedly targeting. The attorney, Kelci Binau, a specialist in Gaming and Administrative Law, alleged that Judge Robb engaged in a “willful, repeated and patterned” course of conduct that spanned more than a year, causing significant fear and intimidation.
Court documents, as reported by local media outlets, detailed numerous incidents occurring at various locations throughout Reno, including Binau’s residences and workplaces. The filings suggest that the encounters may have numbered in the hundreds, highlighting a prolonged period of alleged harassment dating back to May 2024. The protective order was issued last week, underscoring the severity of the accusations.
The case has drawn attention to the judiciary’s internal oversight mechanisms and the challenges in addressing allegations against sitting judges. The Nevada judiciary, governed by the state’s Judicial Branch, maintains protocols for investigating misconduct, but such high-profile cases often raise questions about transparency and accountability.
Judge Robb, 63, had served on the bench for several years before this controversy emerged. Her retirement effectively ends the judicial proceedings related to her role, though the protective order remains in place to safeguard Ms. Binau. The attorney’s legal representation has emphasized the importance of the order in preventing further contact and ensuring personal safety.
This incident also shines a light on the broader issue of stalking and harassment within professional environments. The Office on Violence Against Women at the U.S. Department of Justice defines stalking as a pattern of repeated behavior that causes fear or emotional distress, often requiring legal intervention such as protective orders. Cases involving public officials can complicate enforcement and public perception.
The Nevada Attorney General’s office has not released a formal statement regarding the case but has reiterated its commitment to upholding the law impartially. Meanwhile, the Washoe County courts continue to handle related administrative matters as the community processes the implications of the allegations.
Legal experts note that protective orders serve as critical tools in preventing escalation and providing victims with legal recourse. The Federal Judiciary’s guidelines on protective orders outline the procedures and protections available, which vary by jurisdiction but share common goals of victim safety and offender accountability.
As Judge Robb steps away from her position, questions remain about the impact on public trust in the judicial system and the measures necessary to prevent similar situations in the future. The case underscores the importance of vigilance and support for those who come forward with allegations of harassment, regardless of the accused’s status.
For those seeking resources or assistance related to stalking, the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN) provides comprehensive information and support services nationwide.
The unfolding of this case serves as a reminder of the complex intersections between personal conduct, professional responsibility, and the law’s role in protecting individuals from harm.
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