Charge dismissed in clash with judge

Columbia Falls City Court has dismissed a disorderly conduct charge against a woman who confronted Whitefish Municipal Judge Bradley Johnson last month and alleged he was speeding in downtown Columbia Falls.

Cynthia Howell of Columbia Falls approached Johnson at the Columbia Falls Post Office on July 9 and claims she simply told him to slow down on city streets.

She alleged Johnson became confrontational with her.

Johnson denied going over the posted speed limit and submitted a written statement to police, alleging Howell “shook her fist and made a face” at him.

Howell was charged with disorderly conduct after Johnson gave the license-plate number and a statement to the Columbia Falls Police Department.

Howell pleaded not guilty to the charge and asked for a jury trial.

She also filed a complaint with the Montana Judicial Standards Commission, accusing the judge of unethical conduct. It’s unknown if that complaint is being investigated by the state because confidentiality laws won’t permit state officials to talk about specific cases.

In its motion to dismiss the case with prejudice, the city of Columbia Falls said in a written statement that it “carefully considered statements from the defendant (Howell), victim (Johnson) and the Columbia Falls Police Department.

“Although probable cause existed to initially charge this matter, further investigation has revealed that there is insufficient evidence upon which to sustain a conviction,” the motion states.

Howell said she’s been told she will get the $185 bond she posted returned to her.