San Antonio Judge Named to Hear Case Against Judge Baker

TYLER – A San Antonio judge has been selected to hear the case that seeks the removal of Smith County Judge Joel Baker. The paperwork was filed Thursday that names 224th State District Judge David Peeples to hear the case. Peeples was appointed by the presiding judge of the first region, Judge Mary Murphy. The action was needed since 7th State District Court Judge Kerry Russell recused himself earlier this week from the high profile case. The suit to remove Judge Baker was filed by Grassroots America – We the People. The group’s Director, Executive Director JoAnn Fleming said the suit was filed against Judge Baker for incompetency and official misconduct over a school zones camera agreement and over sexting allegations that surround him.