Media & Press
News coverage, interviews, speeches, and press materials from Former Judge Leon Jenkins' distinguished career at the 36th District Court.
Coverage
Detroit Free Press
An in-depth look at how Judge Jenkins' rehabilitation-focused approach has reduced recidivism and transformed outcomes for Detroit residents in the criminal justice system.
Michigan Chronicle
A profile of Judge Jenkins' career, his roots in Detroit, and his commitment to ensuring the 36th District Court serves every resident with fairness and dignity.
Detroit News
Judge Jenkins' court technology and procedural reform initiative draws praise from the National Center for State Courts as a model for urban district courts.
WDIV Local 4
In an exclusive television interview, Judge Jenkins speaks candidly about the need for systemic reform, community investment, and the future of the 36th District Court.
Crain's Detroit Business
Crain's examines the operational and administrative reforms under Judge Jenkins that cut case backlogs and improved service delivery for Wayne County residents.
Michigan Lawyers Weekly
Michigan Lawyers Weekly recognizes Judge Leon Jenkins among the state's most impactful judicial figures for his contributions to court reform and community justice.
Publication
The Untold Story of Judge Leon Jenkins
Two trials. Two acquittals. One extraordinary story of justice.
Judge Jenkins was prosecuted because his approach was antithetical to the traditional views of the criminal justice system on race, punishment, imprisonment, bonds, and control of the minority population. His programs — sending over 5,000 people back to school, accepting 4,000 essay assignments in place of monetary bonds, and requiring community service from professionals — threatened to put private prisons, bond companies, and slave labor in prisons out of business.
His ordeal lasted five years, encompassing two separate jury trials, two separate acquittals, an appeal to the 6th Circuit Court of Appeals, and an unprecedented simultaneous fight with the Michigan Judicial Tenure Commission and the Michigan State Bar — both of which aligned with federal prosecutors in their attempt to convict Judge Jenkins.
The trials and verdicts are a must-read account of one judge's extraordinary stand against a system determined to silence him — and his ultimate vindication.
Press Kit
Members of the media seeking interviews, official statements, biographical information, or high-resolution photography are welcome to reach out. A full press kit including biography, headshots, and career highlights is available upon request.
