Pontius Pilate, the self-serving coward acting tough 5th Roman governor of Judea. His appointment was by Emperor Tiberias, and he ruled for ten years. He needed to belong, had to please the people, and would convict an innocent man so that he would be friends with headquarters. 

He knew the drill but was hungry for acceptance. He got the warning, and his wife sent him a word, but he was far too drunk with his self-seeking power-hungry desire.