I have given second chances.
I have reduced sentences.
I have offered community service instead of jail time because I believe in redemption.
I believe people can change.
I believe in the power of compassion.
But I also believe in accountability.
I believe that actions have consequences.
And I believe that when someone shows a pattern of behavior that
demonstrates a complete and total disregard for the safety of others, for the law, and for basic human respect, well then this court has an obligation.
It is an obligation to protect the community and to send a message that no one, and I mean no one, is above the law.
Now, let me talk about something else that has been brought to my attention.
The defendant’s father, Robert Thornton, CEO of Thornton Industries, a company that owns 17 commercial properties in downtown Providence and 12 residential developments across Rhode Island, employing over 230 people, has been trying to use his influence to make this case go away.
