Ousted judge supports law changes after plea deal outrage

By BECKY BOHRER
Associated Press
JUNEAU, Alaska (AP) – An Alaska judge who lost his job amid public outcry after approving a plea agreement in an assault case says he was “crucified” for following the law.

Former Superior Court Judge Michael Corey testified Monday before a Senate committee weighing legislation that seeks to close so-called loopholes in the law revealed by that case.

Corey, who lost a retention vote in November, says he supports the legislative changes.

Justin Schneider was accused of attacking and masturbating on a woman in 2017. He pleaded guilty to felony assault and was sentenced to two years in prison with one year suspended. Having spent a year in home confinement, he had no more time to serve.

A Department of Law official has said the sentence was consistent with existing laws.