A Georgia Superior Court judge has resigned from a key leadership role days after a DUI arrest outside a Florida strip club.

Judge Robert “Bert” Guy Jr., formerly president of Georgia’s Council of Superior Court Judges, stepped down after his arrest in Jacksonville, Florida, where he was accused of driving under the influence, hitting another vehicle, and trying to leave the scene, as the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports.

The arrest occurred early Tuesday morning when Judge Guy allegedly backed his Mercedes-Benz into a pickup truck in the parking lot of a Jacksonville strip club. Authorities with the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office reported that the judge appeared intoxicated at the time of the crash. The officer’s report noted that instead of exchanging insurance information, Guy allegedly attempted to offer the other driver $500 in cash to avoid involving law enforcement.

Witnesses told police that Guy refused to identify himself or answer questions when confronted. After the failed exchange, he reportedly tried to leave the scene, but was soon detained by responding officers. He was charged with driving under the influence and refusing to submit to a breathalyzer test, according to jail records.

Arrest, release ensue

Guy was booked into jail early Tuesday, and records show he was released later that morning after securing a $3,000 bond. The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office did not report any injuries resulting from the minor crash, and the pickup truck driver was not identified publicly. DUI arrest procedures in Florida typically involve field sobriety tests and chemical testing consent, both of which Guy reportedly declined.

After his release, Guy took steps to inform Georgia authorities of the incident. He self-reported the arrest to the Judicial Qualifications Commission (JQC), a state agency responsible for overseeing judicial conduct. The JQC confirmed it was notified promptly by Guy and has opened an investigation into the matter, as is standard protocol.

“The commission is aware of the judge’s arrest,” said Courtney Veal, director of the JQC. She declined further comment while the investigation is ongoing. The details surrounding whether Guy will face further disciplinary action or have the case to a judicial panel remain unclear.

Resignation from leadership post

By Friday, Judge Guy submitted his resignation as president of the Council of Superior Court Judges. While he still holds his judicial seat in Georgia’s Brunswick Judicial Circuit, stepping down from the presidency halts his administrative responsibilities within the council. His departure comes amid growing scrutiny surrounding his conduct in Jacksonville.

In a brief statement released publicly, Guy acknowledged his decision to step aside from the council’s leadership. “It has been a distinct honor and privilege to serve the Council of Superior Court Judges as President and in other roles,” he wrote. “However, today I am resigning effectively immediately as Council President.”

The council issued its own statement thanking Guy for his service and offering well wishes. The body plays a vital role in judicial policy-making and liaising with state lawmakers during Georgia’s legislative sessions, suggesting the shake-up could have broader implications for upcoming policy decisions.

New leader takes helm

With Guy stepping down, Judge Dustin Hightower of the West Georgia Judicial Circuit has been named the new president of the council. Hightower will now represent the body before the Georgia General Assembly and oversee internal council matters. He was previously a member of the executive committee and is expected to carry out the remainder of Guy’s term while the council regroups.

Meanwhile, Fulton County Judge Paige Reese Whitaker has been appointed the president-elect, positioning her to assume leadership following Hightower. Whitaker is best known for handling the highly publicized YSL gang trial involving Atlanta rapper Young Thug, which has become the longest criminal proceeding in Georgia’s history.

Judge Guy’s judicial career began in 2017 after a successful 2016 election campaign. A 2024 press photo showed him participating in local courthouse events in St. Mary’s, within the Brunswick Judicial Circuit. His resignation from the high-profile council role marks a significant moment both for his career and the council’s current leadership trajectory.

Lessons to learn

While no one is immune to making mistakes, the circumstances of this arrest highlight critical lessons for public officials and citizens alike:

1. Accountability matters at all levels. Whether occupied by a public servant or a civilian, leadership roles come with responsibility. Immediately self-reporting an arrest, as Guy did, is essential to integrity -- even when facing serious allegations.

2. Driving under the influence is never worth the risk. Beyond legal ramifications, impaired driving endangers lives. Whether you are a passenger or a driver, always choose alternative transportation when alcohol is involved.

3. Offering bribes and leaving a scene jeopardizes legal outcomes. In high-stress situations like a crash, remaining calm and following protocol is crucial. Attempting to cover up or avoid consequences can lead to additional charges and damage reputations further.

No matter how careful any individual is, crime and poor decisions can still affect everyone. It's important to avoid victim-blaming and instead focus on prevention and education.

Why this story matters

This incident raises serious concerns about accountability in public office and the expectation that judicial figures uphold the law both on and off the bench. With Judge Guy holding a visible role in guiding Georgia’s judicial operations, this arrest and resignation force reflection on ethics and oversight. The story underscores the importance of transparency and responsibility in maintaining the public's trust in legal institutions.

It also shows that power does not grant immunity from scrutiny or consequence, emphasizing the value of journalistic coverage in holding officials to a standard. As investigations unfold, the community will be watching for signs of fairness and due process.