Judge Tim Shea: Orange County Circuit Court judge should apologize Florida Supreme Court says

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) -- The Florida Supreme Court has affirmed a trial judge's discipline for "rude and intemperate behavior" that included screaming at attorneys and sentencing a defendant without his lawyer present.

   The court on Thursday ruled that Orange County Circuit Judge Tim Shea should send letters of apology and continue mental health treatment. Its decision also requires Shea to appear before the high court for a public reprimand.

   But the justices also recognized that Shea had admitted mistakes and had been going through a "particularly stressful time" because of a family member's mental illness.

   Shea took office in January 2007. The incidents in question occurred 2007-2009.