IN RE: Karen Ruth Carter PETERSON (2022)

Joint petition for consent discipline accepted. See per curiam.

ATTORNEY DISCIPLINARY PROCEEDING

Respondent, a former elected official, pleaded guilty to wire fraud in connection with her use of state political party and campaign funds to support her gambling addiction. Prior to the filing of formal charges, respondent and the Office of Disciplinary Counsel submitted a joint petition for consent discipline, in which respondent acknowledges that her conduct constitutes a violation of Rules 8.4(a), 8.4(b), and 8.4(c) of the Rules of Professional Conduct. Having reviewed the petition,

IT IS ORDERED that the Petition for Consent Discipline be accepted and that Karen Ruth Carter Peterson, Louisiana Bar Roll number 23446, be and she hereby is disbarred, retroactive to August 18, 2022, the date of her interim suspension. Her name shall be stricken from the roll of attorneys and her license to practice law in the State of Louisiana shall be revoked.

IT IS FURTHER ORDERED that all costs and expenses in the matter are assessed against respondent in accordance with Supreme Court Rule XIX, § 10.1, with legal interest to commence thirty days from the date of finality of this court's judgment until paid.

FOOTNOTES

FOOTNOTE.   Griffin, J. recused.

Griffin, J., recused.