The Boston Police are demanding that Roxbury judge Edward R. Redd apologize because he was deferential at a hearing for a convicted cop killer. Judge Redd presided over a probation hearing for Christopher Shays. Mr. Shays was convicted and served time in prison for planting a bomb that killed a Boston Police officer. On Wednesday May 14, two dozen Boston Police Officer packed Judge Redd’s courtroom in what they called a show of support. The judge was described as deferential and said that he would rather that the police officers out on the street working for their community. After the comments were made by the judge Boston Police officers have claimed that they were offended and have called for an apology.
Here, it is understandable that the emotions may run high, but the Boston police have no right to demand anything from a judge. The judge should not be bullied into saying he is sorry for saying anything. It is also wrong for the police to fill the courtroom and then demand to the press that the judge apologize to them.
Contact Boston Criminal Attorney Patrick Donovan with any criminal law issues.