https://www.insidenova.com/headlines/protesters-want-investigation-into-loudoun-judge-who-jailed-domestic-violence-victim/article_78f12eca-1d46-11ec-85a7-ff1c998ecc04.html
A judge, during testimony in a domestic violence case, sentenced the alleged victim of the domestic violence to 10 days in jail for smoking marijuana the morning of the trial, which was held in the afternoon. Last name Orndoff, was testifying against her current boyfriend on domestic abuse charges when the judge interrupted and asked if she was intoxicated. Orndoff admitted to smoking marijuana the morning of the trial and was immediately sentenced to 10 days in jail. Locals are not happy about this, stating that the main issue here was about the domestic abuse, not if she was smoking.
It’s crazy to think that a judge, during testimony about a domestic abuse case, would simply jail the victim of the abuse based on something not even related to the case. Her smoking had nothing to do with her boyfriend abusing her and yet during this trial she was punished as a victim. I hope an investigation takes place; in my opinion, that should not have interrupted a case such as this in any way.
This story is very interesting. I also find it confusing and weird that during a case that typically involves unequal power dominance, and or gaslighting that a judge would change the whole focus towards punishing the victim. Especially when the punishment has no correlation to what is actually going on. Cases like this honestly add to my personal distrust in our Justice system, and i believe a lot of people would agree. Situations like this simply discredit and embarrass victims and contributes to victims feeling hushed and unimportant.
Wow I agree with the locals especially if marijuana is legalized in certain states. The bigger problem is domestic violence and she should be heard.
Thanks for posting this Andrew. It is a very odd reminder that the justice system is eyeing the victim/survivor for their misbehavior, whether it is marijuana or wearing a skirt too short.
I find this story astonishing to hear. Even though I do not know what made the judge critique Orndoff on her usage of toxins, I am here questioning myself on why should it matter to the judge? Clearly the issue at hand is the case of a victim trying to fight for her rights against her abusive boyfriend, not some external factors such as the victim’s demeanor and her drug history. This shows that in the court, the judge’s priority was everything but listening to the victim’s story and getting justice for her. In fact, it looks like the judge wanted any excuse to bring shame to the victim and make her feel bad for her mistakes and not pay close attention to the abuser’s actions. By putting the victim into jail, it can be implied that society, especially in the court system, the victim is put at fault for factors that should not influence the verdict on whether they deserve protections and help against someone who meant to cause harm to them.