An upstate New York judge, Mark Grisanti, is facing a reprimand from the New York State Commission on Judicial Conduct (SCJC) for his involvement in a shirtless brawl over a parking spot with his neighbors. The incident, which occurred in June 2020, was captured on video and showed Grisanti shoving a police officer during the altercation. Despite a recommendation for his removal from the bench, the SCJC opted for a lighter punishment of public admonishment.
Grisanti, a Court of Claims judge and acting Erie County Supreme Court Justice, has been serving in a “holdover” capacity since his term expired in July 2023. The SCJC’s Administrator, Robert Tembeckjian, expressed his hope that Grisanti would understand the severity of his actions and uphold the integrity and dignity required of his position.
The altercation stemmed from Grisanti’s belief that his neighbors, Joseph and Gina Mele, were encroaching on his driveway in Buffalo. On the night of the fight, Grisanti found two cars parked on opposite sides of his driveway, leading to a confrontation between him, his wife Maria Grisanti, and the Meles. Profanities were exchanged, and a physical altercation ensued before the police arrived.
During the scuffle, Maria Grisanti was handcuffed and brought to the ground while resisting arrest. This prompted Mark Grisanti to shove one of the arresting officers and make threats. Grisanti eventually apologized for his actions before being taken into custody. No charges were brought against any of the neighbors involved.
In addition to the brawl, the SCJC also found that Grisanti should be admonished for presiding over eight cases involving an attorney who had purchased his law firm. Grisanti failed to disclose their financial ties and compensation, which continued until June 2019.
Gina Mele, one of the neighbors involved in the incident, expressed her disappointment with the SCJC’s decision, feeling that Grisanti was let off too easily. She claimed that she and her husband were the victims in the situation and believed a cover-up had taken place.
Grisanti’s lawyers, Terrence Connors and Vincent Doyle, defended their client, stating that his conduct on that particular day did not warrant removal from the bench. They highlighted Grisanti’s exemplary record as a judge, emphasizing his diligence, hard work, and courtesy.
