This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2017, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
Judge Thomas Low's overt disregard for a survivor of sexual assault reflects the pervasive culture of victim-blaming.
"The court had no doubt that Mr. Vallejo is an extraordinarily good man," Low said just moments before sentencing Keith Vallejo to prison for sexually abusing the two females. "But great men, sometimes do bad things," Low continued.
This comment made by the judge is unacceptable and further perpetuates the victim-blaming mentality that exists in this culture. One of the survivors of ex-bishop Vallejo's sexual assault was present in the courtroom while the judge praised the offender and was seemingly emotional.
The offender remained consistent in claiming innocence and not accepting any wrong doing for what he had done. It wasn't the judge's duty to praise the man who sexually violated several women, and I can't help but think what the offender's connection to the LDS Church (ex-bishop) had to do with the "special treatment" he had received.
Is it a coincidence that the judge is also a member of the church, and exhibited no regard for the victim that was listening to him praise her predator? This judge also received over 50 letters of approval from members of the community for his choice of words.
Ani Zakaryan
Salt Lake City