Lake County judges join call to reaffirm principles of justice, equality

The presiding judges of the Lake Circuit and Superior Courts have issued a statement against racism and in support of due process and equal protection.

The joint statement issued Friday was signed by Lake Circuit Judge Marissa McDermott and Lake Superior Chief Judge John Sedia and echoes Indiana Chief Justice Loretta Rush’s June 5 Statement on Race and Equity. 

The statements come amid protests and calls for criminal justice and policing reforms after the deaths of George Floyd and numerous other African Americans at the hands of police.

“It is critical and essential, in Lake County in particular, that we reaffirm our commitment to the guarantees of due process and equal protection under the law. Abuses of power and of constitutional rights cannot be tolerated, nor can they be condoned by indifference,” the Lake County judges’ statement said.

“We accept the charge laid down by Chief Justice Rush to take action for all of us to live in a better world. We encourage all to make comments and give perspective at on.in.gov.innovate. We will strive to hear and heed the voice of the people so that we maintain the wisdom to deliver true justice to those who appear before us,” the statement said.

The judges said in an email that their statement “is to demonstrate a consensus among us to insure justice and fairness for all in these troubled times.”