Judge Censured for Courthouse Gun Experiment
The New York State Commission on Judicial Conduct sanctioned Judge Jeffrey Gershuny for using a firearm during a hearing.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Criminal Justice
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New York State authorities officially censured Judge Jeffrey Gershuny following an incident where he introduced a personal firearm into a courtroom hearing. The judge attempted an impromptu test to see if a testifying officer could identify a weapon hidden in a shopping bag.
Why it matters
The disciplinary action addresses serious concerns regarding courtroom safety and the appropriateness of judicial conduct during active legal proceedings. It highlights strict oversight into how judges handle weaponry within secure court facilities.
Judge Jeffrey Gershuny has been formally censured by the New York State Commission on Judicial Conduct for his actions. He is currently banned from carrying weapons in the courthouse, and administrators have already docked his pay and status.
The players
Jeffrey Gershuny
He is a judge currently serving in the Manhattan Criminal Court who previously served in the Brooklyn Criminal Court.
New York State Commission on Judicial Conduct
This state agency is responsible for investigating complaints and disciplining judges for misconduct within the New York court system.
The details
During an August 5, 2025, proceeding, Gershuny removed a 9mm SIG Sauer P365 pistol from his bench, placed it on the floor, and substituted a Swingline stapler into a bag. He then questioned a police officer about the contents of the bag to challenge the officer's ability to identify a firearm, despite being advised against the act by court officers.
Timeline
August 5, 2025: Judge Gershuny conducted the experiment during a court hearing.
October 13, 2026: The commission publicly announced the formal censure.
Legal Context
This case reflects the rigorous enforcement of New York State courthouse weapon restrictions meant to maintain security in sensitive environments. The sanction marks a definitive step by oversight bodies to uphold judicial standards and prevent the escalation of risk in public courtrooms.
The disciplinary action against Judge Gershuny reinforces security protocols meant to keep the public and court staff safe during proceedings. Residents attending hearings in Manhattan or Brooklyn can expect continued strict enforcement of rules prohibiting weapons in courtrooms.
The takeaway
Courtrooms are strictly controlled environments where safety regulations apply to all participants regardless of their professional role. Judges are held to high standards of conduct, and violations of security protocols are subject to formal disciplinary action by oversight commissions.
Further reading
For more information on the standards governing local courtrooms, visit the Criminal Justice section.
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