An S.F. judge accused of harassing female lawyers of color was quietly transferred. Now hes back.

Female public defenders of color have accused Judge Braden Woods of a pattern of inappropriate comments and bias between 2018 and 2021. After a formal complaint was lodged in 2021, Woods was transferred to a different court, but his recent return to the Civic Center has led to renewed tensions. Diamond Ward, one of the complainants, has challenged Woods' ability to oversee her case, citing a history of inappropriate behavior. Elizabeth Camacho, a deputy public defender, stated that Woods creates a toxic work environment for women of color. Woods, appointed in 2013, faced a formal complaint supported by multiple attorneys, highlighting his disrespectful comments and actions towards young women lawyers.

Following the allegations, a meeting involving the district attorney’s office and judicial leadership took place to address the concerns. The presiding judge acted quickly to retract Woods' promotion following the complaints. A ruling on Ward's challenge is expected soon, with Woods reportedly signaling intentions to dismiss it.