joseph-simpson-1.jpgTALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) _ A state court investigative panel says a Florida judge is too ill to remain on the bench.

The Judicial Qualifications Commission panel on Thursday asked the Florida Supreme Court to order the involuntary retirement of Circuit Judge Joseph Simpson of Fort Myers.

Simpson also signed a stipulation waiving his right to a probable cause hearing and agreeing that the allegations in a notice of formal charges are accurate.

That notice and the panel's findings say Simpson is suffering from Parkinson's disease.

It quotes two doctors who concluded he cannot perform his job duties, is at risk of falling and unable to communicate.