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The Clarion Ledger has a story this morning by Jimmie Gates that they’ve obtained the special master’s report that makes findings and recommendations about Ed Peters’ role in the Eaton v. Frisby case.  Recall that case was the trade secret case that emerged as one of either three or four cases in which there was substantial evidence of improper conduct between Ed Peters (who in that particular case was not on the record as a lawyer) and Judge DeLaughter.  After Peters began playing a shadowy role, Judge DeLaughter started making peculiar rulings in favor of the client Peters was representing.  As the story this morning notes, the case is part of both an FBI investigation and the Judicial Performance Commissions move to oust Judge DeLaughter.

The report and recommendation of  special master David Dogan, which in in the original Eaton case and deals specifically with production by Eaton of documents and emails that show “Hinds County Circuit Judge Bobby DeLaughter improperly communicated with former mentor Ed Peters.” The report says:  “The documents to be produced show a design, and in certain cases direct evidence, of engaging in contact with Judge DeLaughter on an ex parte basis. Such conduct is not permissible and is, as a matter of law, improper.”  The story goes on:

The report said the documents recommended to be produced show:

“The people involved in the decision to hire Ed Peters, which has been held relevant.”

“Intent to hire Ed Peters and the financial arrangements connected with that retention.”

“The apparent ex parte contact Ed Peters had with Judge DeLaughter at a time he had not entered an appearance as counsel of record but following the time Plaintiffs had retained him.”

“Acknowledgement on the part of Plaintiffs of concern about the propriety of retaining Ed Peters and the timing of his entry of appearance.”

“Finally, there are documents reflecting direct communications with Judge DeLaughter via e-mail with no apparent indication that counsel opposite was copied on these communications or advised of the fact of the communications,” the report said.