No decision on Novi magistrate's comments that man kill self

A decision has not yet been made on possible disciplinary action against a Novi magistrate who suggested to an underage drinker that he commit suicide. via WLNS-TV Lansing

[Novi Wolverine]

Reading Magistrate Holtz’s words one pauses to remember one of the first “judiciary rules” taught to us as children. Perhaps Matistrate Holtz should review it.

“Two ‘wrongs’ don’t make a ‘right’”.

I fully understand and empathize with her personal frustration. But her postition requires that she rise above personal frustration. This issue is about a court officer’s sworn duty and the law.

Last I looked, suicide was against the law regardless of ones feelings. Assisting in a suicide in Michigan results in a jail sentence. A Judge advocating breaking a law in court as “my suggestion to you” is an inappropriate suggestion from the judiciary. Dictating such recommendations from the bench is a slippery slope I, as a citizen, would like to see the judicial branch of government avoid. This outburst did no one any favors.

If in this case the defendent acts upon the courts advice, what legal position does this put the 52nd District Court in? Hopefully we won’t have to find out.

[HH ROCKS]

Although she was not politically correct in what she said - her point was right on - alcoholism is a long, vicious, dreadful disease and one's decision to continue in their addiction instead of seek help is purely selfish, unjustified and hell on those that love them.