A Florida judge made headlines last week when he sentenced a man to 10 days in jail for oversleeping and missing jury duty. Now, CNN reports the judge has cleared the young man’s record.
Judge John Kastrenakes found 21-year-old Deandre Somerville in contempt of court for not showing up to jury duty during a civil trial. Kastrenakes vacated the contempt of court charge and cleared Somerville’s record.
The West Palm Beach resident was originally sentenced to 10 days, 150 hours of community service, a written apology of no less than 100 words and $233 in fines. Judge Kastrenakes’ decision prompted swift outrage on social media as Sommerville does not have a criminal record.
The judge reportedly reduced the sentence Friday when Sommerville appeared before the court to read the letter. “Before my hearing, I walked into the courtroom a free man with no criminal record. I left a criminal in handcuffs. This was an immature decision that I made, and I paid the price for my freedom,” Somerville said while reading his letter.
On Saturday the Judge said Somerville’s letter was ‘moving, sincere and heartfelt ” and noted that he “has been totally rehabilitated.”
Kastrenakes said he ordered probation because he wanted to send a message that jury duty is “is serious business deserving of attention, respect, and adherence to their oaths.” However, he said Somerville is “a thoughtful and respectful young man.”
