Introduction
During a Senate hearing, Senator John Kennedy questioned a judge, referred to as Judge Lopez, about her past record on sentencing criminals, especially in cases involving sexual abuse and domestic violence.
Sympathy for Criminals Over Victims?
Senator Kennedy began the questioning by suggesting that Judge Lopez might have more sympathy for criminals than for victims. Judge Lopez defended her record, stating that she had worked zealously on behalf of victims both as a prosecutor and as a judge.
Case of Micah Smith
Senator Kennedy brought up the case of Micah Smith, a defendant who was convicted of unlawful sexual contact with two young children. Judge Lopez confirmed that she had sentenced Smith but insisted she had followed the state’s recommendations. Senator Kennedy quoted a description of Smith’s conduct and pointed out that Lopez had described Smith as a person with “a lot of good in him” despite his reprehensible actions.
Sentencing Decisions
Kennedy highlighted that Judge Lopez had sentenced Smith to 12 years but suspended six of them, to which Judge Lopez responded that it was at the recommendation of the state to allow for participation in sex offender treatment. Kennedy questioned whether this was an appropriate sentence given the nature of Smith’s crimes.
Article from Bangor Daily News
Senator Kennedy referenced an article from the Bangor Daily News that criticized light sentences in domestic violence cases. Judge Lopez contended that the article mischaracterized a case where the jury had acquitted the defendant of the most serious charges, which constrained her sentencing decision.
Accusations of Activism
Kennedy accused Judge Lopez of being an activist judge, a claim she did not directly address but instead pointed to the support she received from victim advocacy groups in Maine.
Conclusion
The hearing concluded with Kennedy reiterating his belief that Judge Lopez showed more sympathy for criminals than victims, a claim she refuted by citing her support from anti-domestic violence and sexual assault coalitions.
