Ex-wife calls Texas judge in beating video addict

Ex-wife calls Texas judge in beating video addict

PORTLAND, Texas (AP) — The ex-wife of a Texas judge who was captured on video beating his teenage daughter blames the regular attacks on an addiction and says he brainwashed her into compliance.

In an interview this morning on NBC’s “Today” show, Hallie Adams called Aransas County Court-at-Law Judge William Adams’ addiction a “family secret,” but did not elaborate. Their 22-year marriage ended in 2007.

In the 8-minute video that their then-16-year-old daughter Hillary secretly videoed in 2004, the judge lashes the girl with a belt more than a dozen times. Hallie Adams, who is also seen spanking the teen, says her ex “completely brainwashed and controlled” her.

Police in Rockport, where the 51-year-old judge lives, are investigating whether any crime was committed.