Nationwide — Karen Sanders, a Justice Court judge in DeSoto County, Mississippi, was arrested Saturday for DUI and careless driving after a traffic stop in Hernando. She has been released and will return to the bench next week.
The Hernando Police Department said Sanders was stopped just before 6 p.m. on West Valley Street. Court documents indicate she appeared to be under the influence of alcohol at the time, according to WLBT.
Sanders serves District 5, covering the southern part of DeSoto County. Her court handles small civil claims under $3,500, misdemeanors, traffic cases, and conducts preliminary hearings in felony matters. She also signs warrants and sets bonds.
The sheriff’s office confirmed Sanders was released from the DeSoto County Jail on her own recognizance. Her next court appearance is scheduled for April 1, 2026.
Officials from Hernando Police and DeSoto County Justice Court did not provide additional comments. Court staff confirmed Sanders will continue handling cases unless directed otherwise and is expected back on the bench Monday, December 15.