Ian Walker did not explain at the time why he walked out of Manchester Magistrate's Court in June instead of hearing the charges against Zoobia Hussain. He later said he could not be certain of her identity because she was wearing a niqab, a veil that concealed her entire face except for her eyes, The Times of London reported.

The Lord Chief Justice and Lord Chancellor have issued a reprimand. The Office of Judicial Complaints said that Walker, who has not appeared as a magistrate since he has been under investigation, must receive additional training.

Hussain, a resident of Crumpsall in Lancashire, was charged with covering her house with graffiti. She was ordered to pay compensation for the damage and subjected to a curfew.

Hussain's lawyer said that her client was upset by Walker's action.