A Louisiana Judge is pleading for forgiveness after a viral video captured her using racial slurs. In the video, Lafayette City Court Judge Michelle Odinet and her family watched their home security footage on Saturday, which showed an armed burglary in the driveway. In the video, she says, “We have a ni***r, It’s a ni***r, like a roach.” According to The Advocate, the video has caused concern, and residents are calling for her resignation.
Judge Odinet claims, “I was given a sedative at the time of the video. I have zero recollection of the video and the disturbing language. Anyone who knows me and my husband knows this is contrary to the way we live our lives.” She continued asking for understanding, forgiveness, patience, and prayers. However, the public isn’t buying it. On Monday, Michael Toussaint, local NAACP President, called for her resignation. “She is a sitting judge in a sitting court. She represents the community of Lafayette. We can’t condone that type of behavior from her or anyone else for that matter,” he said.
Lafayette City Marshall Reggie Thomas also spoke out about Judge Odinet’s actions stating, “As a proud Black man, and the Lafayette City Marshal, I strongly believe Judge Odinet should be held accountable. I’m sure that people of color will find it impossible to trust that they will be treated fairly and equally when they have to stand for judgment before Judge Odinet,” he said. He continued stating that the language cannot be accepted or tolerated by anyone, especially those who serve as leaders. The complaints don’t stop there.
Senator Gerald Boudreaux also expressed the situation, and the comments were reprehensible, offensive, and unacceptable from anyone serving as a judge. In addition, he plans on petitioning the Judiciary Commission of Louisiana to investigate the ethical conduct and actions associated with the incident.
59-year-old Robert Handy was arrested and charged with two counts of simple burglary in connection with the incident. However, it’s unclear who recorded the incident inside the home and how it got out to the public. Judge Odinet confirmed a suspected substance abuse issue with her son and said the family is taking the necessary steps to get him help and treatment. Roommates, we’ll keep you updated as more information becomes available.
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