DEAR EDITOR:

I was raised in Mahoning County. I was appalled when I read about James Fortunato, previously sentenced to no jail time, after pleading guilty to three felony charges, including reckless homicide and trafficking in heroin. I was stunned convicted felons can have three related felonies expunged.

Unfortunately, I know how lethal heroin can be. I experienced friends / classmates losing lives to this poison. I went to school with someone addicted, who has since found his way, but not before Judge Durkin sentenced him to prison — not for heroin. He stole a bike and was charged with burglary; he did nine months. I watch drugs flow across the southern border without resistance. Now, a judge gives free passes then expungements for reckless homicide / trafficking in heroin. This leniency is highly questionable and does nothing to discourage heroin dealers waiting for their next victims.

In this case, James Fortunato was looking at a maximum sentence of six years. The prosecutor’s office recommended 12-18 months in jail; Judge Durkin sentenced him to not one day in jail. Does anyone believe this “sentence” will deter offenders? How could reckless homicide and trafficking in heroin equal no jail time?

With three felony convictions, James Fortunato was facing a $20,000 fine. Judge Durkin levied a fine of only $500; he waived $19,500. What judge would pass on putting those funds in county coffers?

It is very easy to connect the dots on this case.

James Fortunato Jr. is the son of longtime Mahoning County director of purchasing. As a Mahoning Common Pleas judge, why did Judge Durkin not recuse himself from a case involving his friend’s son? This isn’t a parking ticket; it’s trafficking / homicide charges to which he pleaded guilty. Does anyone believe Judge Durkin was impartial or unbiased in his reduced fines and zero jail time? He received five year’s probation instead.

Judge Durkin’s claim to fame is drug court, but no drug court for James Fortunato Jr. And his minimal sentence came after Judge Durkin granted 11 continuances, torturing the victim’s family for three years.

The relationship between Judge Durkin and James Fortunato cannot be ignored. Then, an expungement is granted on all three charges on the first filing, despite the Mancuso family objecting with a heart-wrenching victim impact statement at sentencing and expungement hearings. Also note, James Fortunato Jr. had multiple drug abuse, trafficking and drug paraphernalia cases in other communities.

Heartful prayers for the Mancuso family who lost a loved one due to graduate from Carnegie Mellon. This case should be examined and investigated by someone upholding law and punishment of devastating crimes, regardless of profession or personals relationships.

TAYLOR SALRENO

Sarasota, Fla.