Pubdate: Fri, 20 Dec 2002
Source: Traverse City Record-Eagle (MI)
Copyright: 2002 The Traverse City Record-Eagle
Contact:  http://www.record-eagle.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1336
Author: Carol D. Gower
Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/people/judge+Gilbert

IMMUNE TO THE LAWS

If it weren't so serious it would be funny - a judge admits he is guilty of
the same crime he has punished so many others for: alcohol and substance
abuse.

It seems if you work for the 86th District, or have friends there, you are
immune to the laws. Just look at some recent cases. The corrections officer
from 86th District who had marijuana and admitted he smoked it. His sentence
- - 30 days off. He had suffered enough, he was embarrassed, he needed time to
"heal."

How about the football coach - all three judges wouldn't hear the case
because he was a good man and a fellow Catholic. Another judge had to be
brought in to sit on the bench. The jury selection in that case, very
questionable at best!

I believe Gilbert has brought to light problems and shortcomings of the 86th
District judicial system. Maybe it's time to bring in someone to see what's
going on and restore honesty and integrity to the court system. I would not
want to go before Judge Gilbert for any reason, civil or not.

Judge Haley said there was no problem, the two judges could handle the
caseloads while Gilbert was on (paid) leave. Then they brought in the
retired judge to handle the extra cases - of course he needed to be paid
also. If Gilbert now can only hear certain cases, it means he is unable to
do what he was elected to do. I would think he's going to have a substantial
cut in pay. They pay him $378 a day!

The good news, I guess, is that we now are aware of a place in Minnesota
that can cure someone with a drug and alcohol problem in 28 days.

Gilbert should do the 86th District a favor and resign.

Carol D. Gower

Eastpointe
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