I've never met deputy District Judge Carl Teper but I'd like to; I want to shake him by the hand and congratulate him for insisting on respect in our magistrates' court.
James Regan, a 35-year-old shoplifter with 188 convictions was about to be sentenced when the judge asked him if he was listening.
"I wouldn't listen to you, you little piece of shit," responded Regan at which point the judge turned to a Group Four guard standing by the defendant and without hesitation ordered: "Five months immediately, please."
Regan's solicitor Mark James said his client had two major problems: alcohol and homelessness. Judge Carl Teper resolved them both at a stroke.
It wasn't a good week for Mark James, his next client was Lee Steff who breached his Anti-Social Behaviour Order and failed to fulfil his community service.
Pleading for leniency Mr James said: "There comes a time when community punishment becomes unworkable and of little benefit." Macclesfield Magistrates agreed and sentenced Mr Steff to three months in jail only for Chester Crown Court to release him after TEN days.
And finally, after terrorising and intimidating innocent residents, Sutton Stores raider Craig Beaton finally paid the price with a five-month jail sentence for further offences.
It may or may not reform the recalcitrant Beaton but it will help restore a little faith in the scales of justice, provided some idiotic judge doesn't intervene.
If offenders refuse the good intentions of probation officers, spurn the efforts of community service personnel and disrespect our courts they must lose their liberty.
We have trod the path of endless appeasement and paid a heavy price.
- The views expressed on this page are those of Vic Barlow and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Express.
