Justice Served

Thanksgiving for this judge arrived early... and unexpectedly

- By FRANCES McGEE-CROMARTIE Dayton, Ohio

I entered through the back entrance of the courthouse the morning before Thanksgiving, my head down as I walked the hall toward my chambers. It was one of those days when I kept asking the Lord, Are my decisions helping individuals? Am I making a difference in their lives?

My mind replayed yesterday's criminal docket call, three hours of organized chaos when defendants, representatives for the State of Ohio and defense attorneys argued, pleaded and bargained for the sentences they felt were just. Always a trying experience—but especially so right before Thanksgiving.

Back home earlier this morning, I had laid out most of the ingredients I'd need for the special cake and three dozen rolls I'd promised to make for our multigenerational dinner at my sister's house. But that was only a reminder of the defendants I had sentenced to spend their holidays incarcerated. Being separated from their families and friends could spark them to change their lives. No doubt, then, I had an impact on folks' lives. Yet was it a positive one?

I'm proud of the way I've served the citizens of Montgomery County, Ohio, as a common pleas court judge for the past five years. Each day brings different issues and challenges. When it comes to sentencing, I try to fashion a judgment that fits the unique circumstances of each defendant. Many are decent people who've just made bad decisions. For that reason, I start each morning with a prayer: “Give me the wisdom to help the people I meet change their lives for the better.” It’s rare, though, to find out if I succeeded. More often, I find out their fate only if they return, charged with another crime.

I entered my chambers and glanced at the papers spilling from my inbox. What a mess, I thought, picking up the calendar that my bailiff Stella had prepared. I had several hearings scheduled for that Wednesday morning, but maybe I could clear my desk and sign some documents before we got started.