Elizabeth Scherer, judge in Parkland shooter case, resigns from bench
Chris Gothner, Digital Journalist
Christian De La Rosa, Reporter
Published: May 10, 2023
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – Broward County Circuit Judge Elizabeth Scherer, known for presiding over the Parkland school shooter’s penalty phase, submitted her resignation from the court effective June 30 on Wednesday, court officials confirmed to Local 10 News.
Scherer, 46, appointed to the bench in 2012 after spending a little more than a decade as an assistant state attorney, submitted a resignation letter to Gov. Ron DeSantis. She did not give a reason for her resignation.
“It has been a privilege to serve the people of the State of Florida as a member of the judiciary for over 10 years,” Scherer wrote in the letter. “Thank you for your consideration.”
Chief Judge Jack Tuter praised Scherer in a statement to Local 10 News Wednesday afternoon.
“Judge Scherer approached me last year to advise she would soon be leaving the bench,” Tuter said. “During her service, Judge Scherer handled one of the most challenging cases in Broward County’s history. She did so in a professional and dignified manner. On behalf of the 17th Circuit, we wish Judge Scherer good health and prosperity in her future endeavors.”
Scherer had come under fire for her hugging prosecutors following the trial and the public defender in the case filed more than 130 motions to keep her away from other cases.
In April, Scherer was removed from another death penalty case after the Florida Supreme Court agreed she showed unfair sympathy for prosecutors in the Parkland case.
Debbi Hixon, who lost her husband in the school massacre, expressed her appreciation for Scherer.
“I am very sad to hear that Judge Scherer has resigned,” Hixon said. “She was a fair and compassionate judge during our trial and we appreciated her kindness during a very difficult time. Our family wishes her all the best.”
Resignation letter:
