Judge Just in Weighing Cultural Differences

Re “Hand-Burning Fine Is Just, Say Public Defenders,” May 6:

I can understand much of the outrage over Judge James O. Perez’s decision in the child abuse case against Wellington Soto. Before we condemn Perez’s decision, we should remember that the underlying purpose of having judges involved in sentencing is to allow discretion in the administration of punishment. The judge is in the best position to weigh the facts and law as presented by both sides. Although a different culture is not a perfect excuse, it is relevant toward revealing the intent of the defendant and his likelihood to commit future crimes. If we allow any mitigating evidence, surely cultural background should be an important ingredient in sentencing.

E. Martin Estrada

Huntington Beach