HERO Judge Bob Moon
Judge Jails Illegal Alien on Speeding Ticket
Chattanooga, Tn - Judge Moon said Giovanna Montoya would have to serve 10 days at the workhouse at two-for-one on the Class C misdemeanor. The judge said, "It's not about speeding or money. It's about coming to this country illegally - being here when you are not supposed to be."
He added, "I took an oath to uphold the law and I don't think I can just let someone who committed a felony just walk out of my courtroom."
Judge Moon said, "I have a hard time releasing anyone who confesses before me that he has committed a federal offense."
He said afterwards, "When any court becomes apprised that a defendant is residing in this community and this country illegally, it is irresponsible to simply allow that defendant to pass from his or her courtroom back into illegal freedom. I have instructed the Hamilton County district attorney general to immediately notify the United States Immigration and Naturalization law enforcement authorities. I am seeking guidance and a policy statement from the INS on this serious matter. If the INS has no interest in the two to three illegal aliens that pass through my courtroom in a single day, then I will immediately release the defendant on the underlying charge.