Writer shares observations about Adams County court

My daughter, Melissa, was arrested on Sunday and charged with third-degree assault and resisting arrest.

On Monday, I was at her court in Adams County. I couldn't believe some case and always assumed protection orders are put in place because of threats, stalking and assaults, not because someone doesn't love another person or they're not allowed to go out with friends. I'll never forget seeing an alleged rapist not have bail set or given a light sentence. What does this mean, rape of a child? What about rape of a baby, family receive life sentence.

I respect our courts and the law, but did not appreciate how my daughter was talked to by Judge Dixon and looks of workers in court toward my daughter, Melissa, refusing to hear from me thinking that Melissa was disrespecting the court, because she didn't understand the rights. Is this how our courts treat someone with this mental health condition? Her bail was raised by the judge. Yes, she has a record, one who pleads guilty to anything just to go home and not in their right mind will have a record. I was treated rudely by an attorney and the judge and this isn't right. I deserve respect. One has a judge and is fortunate, but I feel you don't take this out on my daughter, Melissa Tapia.

Who protects the rights of the disabled?

Linda Toscano

Warden