On Friday, March 14, Charleston County and community leaders gathered to dedicate the Wadmalaw/Johns Island Magistrate’s Court to former Magistrate Judge Leroy Linen, the longest-serving magistrate judge in the state.
Judge Linen served the county for nearly half a century, including as both Associate Chief Judge and Chief Judge, before retiring in 2019. Upon his retirement, Judge Linen commented, “I look back at 45 years, and I say wow, I never ever in my life could see that I would be at this point. Being judge comes with a lot of responsibility, and I feel that I have treated everyone with respect and fairness.”
On December 19, 2024, Charleston County Council voted to name this facility after Judge Linen—a fitting tribute to a man who dedicated his life to justice and service. The Reverend Dr. Kylon Middleton, pastor of Mt. Zion AME, Charleston, South Carolina, and Charleston County Council President, presided over the ceremony.
Judge Linen is an active member of New Jerusalem AME Church on Wadmalaw Island. He has held office in the Lay Organization at various levels, including as South Carolina Conference President. He currently is the First Vice President of the 7th Episcopal District Lay Organization.
