Judges and Crime: What's at Stake in the Upcoming Election?

A recent case has put a spotlight on the city's judicial system and the impact of mayoral appointments. Cornell Neilly, known as the "Burberry Bandit, " is a repeat offender with 34 prior arrests. He was recently caught robbing five more banks while on parole for a previous bank robbery. Despite this, Judge Jeffrey Gershuny let him walk free on supervised release, ignoring prosecutors' requests for bail or bond. This case raises questions about the judiciary's role in public safety. Gershuny, appointed by former Mayor Bill de Blasio, has faced criticism for his actions. In a bizarre incident last month, he brandished a personal firearm during a hearing, which should have disqualified him from overseeing felony cases. Yet, he remains on the bench, posing a risk to public safety. The upcoming mayoral election could shape the future of the judiciary. The next mayor will have significant influence over the judicial system, as they appoint judges without a confirmation process. The Mayor's Advisory Committee on the Judiciary, filled by the mayor, screens and recommends candidates. If Zohran Mamdani wins, he may appoint more judges like Gershuny, who are soft on crime. This could lead to a judicial system that prioritizes second chances over public safety. While rehabilitation is important, it should not come at the expense of the community's well-being. The "Burberry Bandit" case shows the consequences of such an approach. It's crucial to elect a mayor who understands the balance between justice and public safety. The judiciary plays a vital role in maintaining law and order. Appointing the right judges is a critical responsibility of the mayor. Voters should consider this factor when casting their ballots in the upcoming election. The future of the city's safety depends on it.