Judge Aaron Persky of California, in the spotlight because of the Brock Turner sexual assault case, broke his silence Tuesday as he faces a recall by voters.
Critics have said the Santa Clara County judge was too lenient in the sentencing of Turner, the standout Oakwood High School and former Stanford University swimmer, who was convicted in March 2016 of sexually assaulting an unconscious woman on the Stanford campus in January 2015.
Two years ago, Judge Persky expressed concern that prison would have a "severe impact" on the 20-year-old student, who served three months in jail.
Stanford Law Professor Michele Dauber, who has been leading the recall effort, said the judge ruled favorably for three other college athletes accused of sex crimes and violence against women.
"Judge Persky has shown over and over again that he has poor judgement... and we believe they will vote him out on June 5th," said Dauber.
"So you have to wonder if the recall is successful, the public wonder, will judges have the guts to make the hard decision," Persky said.
He said he thinks the vote sets a dangerous precedent.
It's been nearly 90 years since voters kicked a California Judge off the bench.
Supporters have said Persky was following the recommendation of the county's probation department on Turner's sentence.
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