Video Transcript
This is Brian.
When people hear that someone has received diversion or has been ordered into a rehabilitation program, they sometimes think that person got off easy.
That’s not what these programs are about.
Kentucky law recognizes that not every offender is the same. For many first-time or low-level offenders, the goal is not simply punishment, it’s preventing future crime.
Diversion and rehabilitation programs are designed to address the underlying problems, whether that’s substance abuse, mental health challenges, or poor decision-making, so the person is less likely to commit future crimes and come back through the courthouse doors.
A district judge doesn’t hand these programs out automatically.
A district judge has to carefully evaluate each case, looking at the law, the nature of the offense, the person’s criminal history, and balancing that against public safety, the interests of the victim, and whether that individual is truly ready to take responsibility for what they’ve done and make a change.
When rehabilitation is appropriate, it protects the community by reducing repeat offenses.
When it isn’t appropriate, accountability comes first.
A good judge uses common sense, follows the law, and makes those decisions one case at a time.
That’s the kind of judge I hope to be, and I would be honored to earn your trust and your vote this November.