A judge serving in Ray and Carroll counties has been recommended for a six-month suspension without pay due to allegations of misconduct. Eighth Judicial Associate Circuit Court Judge Joe Don McGaugh recently received a formal notice from the Commission on Retirement, Removal and Discipline regarding allegations of misconduct. McGaugh filed a response stating he “would like to admit to all the allegations of misconduct outlined in the formal notice,” according to court documents. He also offered to “attend mental health counseling beginning immediately.” Additionally, he requested a two-month suspension and asked that his mental disability be considered a mitigating factor by the commission. The court documents noted Supreme Court Rule 5.2585(b) states in attorney disciplinary procedures, a mental disability disorder is not a defense to an allegation of misconduct but may be considered a mitigating factor in determining the appropriate discipline. “The commission finds that…