Assemblyman Joseph Danielsen released the following statement Tuesday regarding the actions of New Jersey judges Marcia Silva and James Troiano:
“It is highly troubling that Marcia Silva and James Troiano were unable to understand the severity of the cases brought before them. Both judges were presented with appalling allegations of sexual assault, yet refused to acknowledge the devastating impact of these offenses on the victims.
“Troiano’s concern for the well-being of an accused rapist simply because he was a good student from a quality school should never have influenced his judgment. Caring more about the future of a privileged alleged perpetrator than the violence inflicted upon his accuser is entirely unconscionable.
“Furthermore, Silva’s belief that the alleged rape of a 12-year-old was not ‘especially heinous or cruel’ completely ignores the reality of a child – who did not and could not consent – being violated by someone she thought she could trust. Rather than focus on the nature of this case, Silva ignored the actual issue in favor of making a point.
“I categorically condemn the unprofessional conduct and disturbingly callous remarks of these judges.”