Oklahoma Judge Traci Soderstrom Steps Down Following Texting and Facebook Misconduct

Judge Traci Soderstrom Faces Backlash for Inappropriate Behavior

Oklahoma’s Lincoln County District Judge, Traci Soderstrom, has tendered her resignation following severe criticism and investigations into her conduct during a murder trial.

The judge was caught engaging in inappropriate behavior, including sending over 500 text messages and scrolling through Facebook during crucial moments of the trial.

Insensitive Acts During Khristian Tyler Martzall’s Trial

The trial involved Khristian Tyler Martzall, accused of fatally beating his girlfriend’s two-year-old son, Braxton Danker, in 2018.

Shockingly, Soderstrom’s actions during jury selection, opening statements, and testimony were far from the expected decorum.

The judge reportedly made jokes about a prosecutor’s appearance, labeled a witness’s evidence as ‘boring,’ and displayed a lack of engagement during critical moments.

Martzall’s Conviction and Mother’s Plea Deal

Khristian Tyler Martzall was convicted of second-degree manslaughter for the tragic death of Braxton Danker.

Braxton’s mother, Judith Danker, who testified against Martzall, had previously accepted a plea deal in 2019, resulting in a 25-year prison sentence for enabling or permitting child abuse.

Text Messages Reveal Unprofessional Conduct

A petition filed in October presented text messages sent by Soderstrom, unveiling her inappropriate comments about attorneys, jurors, and witnesses.

The texts indicated a bias favoring the defendant, even complimenting the defense attorney. Accusations against Soderstrom included gross neglect of duty, gross partiality in office, and oppression in office.

Soderstrom’s Resignation Statement

In her resignation statement, Soderstrom acknowledged her human fallibility but didn’t explicitly admit wrongdoing.

She emphasized her commitment to applying the law equally but decided to step down in the face of mounting allegations.

The Council’s investigation revealed texting conversations between Soderstrom and the courtroom bailiff, where they mocked a prosecutor’s appearance and made inappropriate remarks.

Agreement Not to Seek Another Judicial Position

As part of her resignation agreement, Soderstrom pledged not to seek another judicial position in Oklahoma.

The scandal has raised concerns about the integrity of the legal system, with the judge’s behavior during a murder trial casting a shadow on the pursuit of justice.

The Impact on Soderstrom’s Legacy

Soderstrom’s legacy as a judge is tarnished by the revelations of her unprofessional conduct during a high-stakes trial.

The scandal not only questions her judgment but also underscores the importance of maintaining the highest standards of ethics and impartiality in the legal profession.