An appellate judge at the center of one of Miami’s most high-profile criminal cases is now facing intense scrutiny after the release of text messages revealing her attempts to influence Miami-Dade State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle. The messages expose her criticism of defense attorneys, local judges, and her direct pressure on prosecutors regarding the handling of a capital murder conviction.
Judge Miller’s Reputation Under Fire
Ironically, the text messages sent by Judge Bronwyn Miller—who ascended from prosecutor to circuit judge and now serves on the Third District Court of Appeal—were originally intended to safeguard her reputation. She expressed concern that her credibility was being undermined in hearings reconsidering the capital murder conviction of Corey Smith, the alleged leader of the violent John Doe gang of Liberty City, which she secured two decades ago.
Miller’s role in the 2004 case is now under scrutiny as she serves as a key witness while Smith seeks to avoid the death penalty. Amid growing criticism of the prosecution’s handling of the case, the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office announced Sunday that it would waive the death penalty and instead negotiate a lesser sentence.\
Texts Reveal Close Ties and Questionable Conduct
The leaked messages provide insight into Miller’s close relationship with Miami-Dade’s elected state attorney and her apparent disregard for defense attorneys and the presiding judge. Despite leaving the State Attorney’s Office nearly 20 years ago, the texts illustrate Miller’s influence over decision-making. In one exchange, following unfavorable court rulings in the Smith case, she urged Fernandez Rundle to remove Circuit Judge Andrea Ricker Wolfson from the case. Wolfson later dismissed two prosecutors from the resentencing proceedings, citing misconduct.
“I think you should disqualify her,” Miller wrote on April 6, seemingly referring to Wolfson. “Then all rulings can be reconsidered.”
In another text, Miller identified prosecutor Michael Von Zamft as a key problem, citing his background as a defense attorney. She criticized Fernandez Rundle for allowing him to train new prosecutors, writing:
“They play by different rules. A defense attorney shouldn’t be responsible for training [assistant state attorneys]; instead, it should be someone who understands that prosecutors must uphold higher ethical standards.
Judge Miller, a Republican appointee handling civil and criminal appeals from Miami-Dade County, declined to comment on the messages. In a Saturday email, she stated that she was following the advice of Anthony V. A defense attorney shouldn’t be responsible for training [assistant state attorneys]; instead, it should be someone who understands that prosecutors must uphold higher ethical standards.
“She stated, “On his advice, I will refrain from making any public statements at this time, as it could impact the ongoing proceedings. Upholding the highest standards of ethical conduct remains my priority.”
Legal Community Reacts
The revelations have sent shockwaves through Miami’s legal circles. Attorneys argue that the messages cast doubt on Miller’s ability to fairly preside over appeals.
“Judge Bronwyn Miller’s conduct has raised significant concerns about her ability to serve the people of Florida, bringing the integrity of every case she has overseen into question.
Although it remains unclear whether Miller violated judicial canons or laws, her involvement in the Smith proceedings is unusual. She occupies three key roles: former prosecutor, state witness, and appellate judge. Legal experts argue that such a position presents a conflict of interest.
The Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers-Miami issued a statement expressing deep concern over the texts:
We are deeply disheartened that, despite our repeated calls for reform, ethical concerns continue to plague the highest levels of the [State Attorney’s] Office.We are also troubled that a member of the judiciary exhibited bias against the defense bar while continuing to handle criminal appeals for the office with which she shares such a close relationship.”
Potential Fallout and Next Steps
Miami-Dade Public Defender Carlos Martinez confirmed his office is actively investigating the texts and assessing potential legal remedies.
“We are investigating and looking at what the remedy, if any, is going to be to protect my clients,” Martinez told the Herald.
As the controversy unfolds, the case against Corey Smith could set a precedent, influencing future judicial and prosecutorial accountability. With mounting pressure on Miller and the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office, the legal community and the public will be closely watching the next developments in this unfolding judicial crisis.
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