Missing in discussions about the Persky recall and “judicial independence” is the evidence of his leniency towards privileged and/or athletic defendants. It is not just Brock Turner. Other examples of favorable treatment include two defendants convicted of dating violence, one case of domestic violence, and another convicted of child pornography. In a gang rape case involving members of a local collegiate baseball team, Persky allowed prejudicial testimony about the victim, effectively sinking the case. A young Latino man, however, got no special consideration from Persky, who sentenced him to three years in prison for a crime nearly identical to that of Brock Turner. Lady Justice is blindfolded for a reason: the responsibility to be impartial is essential for judicial independence for both victims and defendants. Judge Persky’s pattern of bias shows abuse of this sacred trust. Vote for his recall and replace him with one of his opponents.
