Chief justice denies allegations

State Chief Justice Jorge Armando Vásquez denied his arrest back in the 80s in Calexico for drug smuggling.

According to a sign in Mexicali’s Civic Center, the state’s top justice was apprehended June 28, 1980, at then-Calexico’s only Port of Entry with a certain amount of marijuana, for which he served two months in prison.

In a press conference, Vásquez —who before becoming justice was appointed civil judge in 1992— said the information is false.

“This goes against the image of the Judiciary Branch,” he said. “This is very low and damages our institution.”

Vásquez declined to say the sign has a relationship with his succession that will take place in two weeks, as the incident affects his colleagues as well. He can seek reelection to the post, according to state law.

The chief justice asked those making the allegations to come to the public eye and file a lawsuit or complaint.

“This is absurd,” he added. “This person must have the civil courage to show his face and speak publicly.”

He recalled that one of the requirements to occupy a job in the branch is to have no criminal background.

Vásquez said the only time he had to face justice in California was decades ago when he had to pay a fine for parking a motorcycle inappropriately outside Calexico’s Bank of America.

The chief justice said if evidence is found to lead to whoever purchased and installed the sign; he might consider filing a lawsuit for slander.