New Kaplan Judge

By Judy T. Mire

KAPLAN — It was standing room only recently when newly elected City Judge Stanton Hardee and City Marshal Ruby Thibeaux took their oath of office.
City Attorney Calvin “Woody” Woodruff, administered the oath to both.
The ceremony was held at the O.H. Deshotel Courtroom at the Kaplan City Court where the large courtroom was full of friends, family and supporters.
Also on hand for the event were many other city and parish officials.
Thibeaux placed her hand on the bible held by Kaplan City Court Clerk Theresa Greene.
Hardee’s bible was held by his father, Stan Hardee and was robed by his mother, Linda Hardee.
“God, family and friends, are the ones responsible for letting me achieve this dream,” said Hardee.
“Without the support of family, friends, and supporters who laughed, prayed, gave your time and votes, this would not have been possible.”
He said his role models and inspiration came from his parents - his father who ran for office in 2006, his mother, Linda, who was Kaplan’s first woman mayor, his paternal grandfather who was an Army officer in the 40s and maternal grandfather, who was a Marine and help protect President Franklin Rosevelt.
Hardee also thanked Woodruff for being his mentor throughout his life and said he was fortunate to have his guidance in his career.
“I want to bring a fresh new spark to the justice system in Kaplan and Ward 9,” Hardee said. “I want to be a fair and impartial judge as I interpret the law in the courtroom.
“My goal is to hear people say ‘Judge Hardee is tough, but he sure is a fair judge.’”
The new judge had his first court session two days after being sworn in.
Thibeaux is entering her second term as Marshal and Hardee is serving in his first.