US JUDGE ACCUSED OF COCAINE DEALS

ONE of Pittsburgh's district judges, Gigi Sullivan, was in court as usual
yesterday. Only on this occasion she was in the dock, charged with snorting
cocaine and shooting up in her chambers before cases as well as dismissing
charges against her dealer in return for drugs.

Ms Sullivan, 38, is accused of being in cahoots with Donald Geraci, a used
car dealer, and a drug ring he led, said Mike Fisher, Pennsylvania's
Attorney-General. As well as dismissing cases brought against him, Ms
Sullivan allegedly tipped off Geraci when police had warrants for his
arrest and when they planned to search his home.

Mr Fisher said that investigators learned of the Pittsburgh judge's drug
habit during a two-year investigation. She has been relieved of her
judicial duties, but will continue to receive her pay during the case. Ms
Sullivan is up for re-election. Her lawyer said that she maintained her
innocence and would not take her name off the ballot.