A judicial watchdog agency is recommending that the Mississippi Supreme Court publicly reprimand a Jefferson Davis County Justice Court judge, Johnny C. Hartzog.

The Commission on Judicial Performance said Tuesday that Hartzog failed to recuse himself in a case where he had learned some facts outside a judicial proceeding.

The commission also said Hartzog used his office to advance the private interests of one of the parties in the case, and that he let his social relationship with one of the parties influence his judgment.

The commission is also recommending that the Supreme Court suspend Hartzog six months without pay.