Judge Sergiu Balaban to face criminal charges

Criminal proceedings will be initiated against Sergiu Balaban, judge at the Buiucani District Court, after the Superior Council of Magistrates (SCM) decided at its Tuesday's meeting to suspend his immunity on the request of the Prosecutor General, Info-Prim Neo reports. The measure was adopted by a majority of votes. Sergiu Balaban will face abuse of authority charges after the SCM found that the judge heard a case and pronounced a decision on it without actually being present in the courtroom. The SCM said Balaban could have gotten away with a reprimand had he admitted his guilt. The SCM will decide whether to suspend Sergiu Balaban from his post of judge upon a further request from the PG. Meanwhile, he will continue to deliver justice at the Buiucani District Court.