Letters: Junkets build contempt for judges

Congratulations to The Advocate, and Rebekah Allen in particular, for bringing to the public’s attention the extracurricular extravagances of a few of our civil “servants.” Her July 8 front page article did indeed discover some rather dubious and, I might add, opulent behavior from a few of our elected officials. It is said that “power has its privileges” and it is obvious a special troupe of jet-setting justices have taken advantage of those delicious benefits.

Unfortunately, those privileges are not free and must come at a price tendered on the backs of the taxpayer. I am sure though, in such a dire economy, the taxpayer is not only proud to support their own families by clever thrift but also the splendid travel and indulgences of our humble magistrates.

One judge’s philosophy of jurisprudence, summed up in her quote that “we are not an island,” was profound and certainly developed after a multitude of jaunts to Caribbean islands and months of leave.

Additionally, the infuriating example of continuing “education” at ski resorts truly equates to high-altitude holidays and won’t snow over your now-enlightened readers.

Thank you for this information. I hope the frivolous use of public money resonates with voters until the next election. Voters may recall such unjust behavior and opt to hold their court ... in contempt.

Alexander Bass

retail manager

Baton Rouge


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Comments (3)


1) Comment by Elderly Man - 17/07/2012

This newspaper creates contempt for journalists.

2) Comment by Elderly Man - 16/07/2012

i am not convinced that the proper term is "junket". That is pejorative. That professional conference happen in nice places does not undermine the need for such events. The newspaper is tacky in its attack on the judicial system, whose members are not really allowed to defend themselves. //This snarly letter is a cheap shot.

3) Comment by ScotB - 16/07/2012

Amen, Alex!