Comments misguided
I was troubled to read the comments of Jeffrey and Karen Bishop regarding Judge Debra Pezze following the sentencing of their son Ian (” Bishop gets 20-40 years ” and ” Parents: Judge Pezze conducted an illegal trial ,” Oct. 31). Particularly troubling were their accusations that she wanted to keep the case in her courtroom for political gain and that she wanted to show how tough she could be via her sentence, and their insinuation that she is less than honorable by referring to her as “the ‘Honorable’ Judge Pezze” in their written statement.
As an assistant public defender, I am before Pezze on a regular basis. What truly distinguishes Pezze is her compassion for all who appear before her and her respect for the law.
I was in the courtroom during Ian Bishop’s sentencing, and the ordinarily smiling Pezze looked quite troubled. At times I saw tears in her eyes. Any accusation that she wanted to keep this horrific case in her courtroom and be forced to make such difficult decisions is misguided.
Even Ian Bishop’s attorney commented that he did not envy the judge’s position on that day. I can only assume that much of the Bishops’ anger toward Pezze is rooted in confusion, heartbreak and possibly denial, but it is misguided nonetheless. Pezze shows on a daily basis how truly honorable she is.