Hamilton County Judge Norbert Nadel acknowledged during sentencing that Tracie Hunter committed a low-level felony and was a first time offender, but said he couldn't get past the "dilemma of a double whammy," and that's why he sentenced her to six months in jail and six months probation.
When explaining the double whammy he said, "Judge Hunter is a judge and a public official and unfortunately it maybe a felony 4 but it's a double whammy."
After hearing the verdict one Hunter supporter cursed Judge Nadel and was thrown out of the courtroom.
In the hallway dozens gathered to support the former judge. Brent Gray was among them. He called the sentence a travesty of justice. "It was a travesty when she ran for office. They didn't want her in....a conviction of her is a conviction of every black person in the city."
Hunter's attorney Clyde Bennett will learn next week whether Judge Nadel will allow his client to stay out of jail while she appeals. Bennett says he's not surprised with the sentence. "It could have been worse. We are going through trials and tribulations now. Weeping may endure for a night but joy cometh in the morning. Our morning is coming."
Prosecutor Scott Croswell said it's a sad day for the community and for the justice system, but Hunter took an oath and must uphold it.
