Ben Salorio eyes Superior Court Judge role
Jessamyn Dodd
IMPERIAL COUNTY, Calif. (KYMA) – Voters in Imperial County will soon decide who they want to serve on the bench in this year’s election.
Imperial County Chief Public Defender Ben Salorio has his eye on the judge’s gavel. He brings 25 years of legal experience with him.
A major issue Salorio wants to address is the need for more accessibility to the courtrooms for those who live farther away or do not have reliable transportation.
At this time, Imperial County only has two courthouses, including the newer criminal court house on Wake Avenue.
Salorio said this makes if difficult for his clients who live in towns like Niland and Calipatria.
Salorio explained, “Allowing and being lenient with remote appearances, I think would help alleviate the issue of the courts being completely consolidated in one place in El Centro.”
When it comes to the question of accountability for people who break the law, we asked Salorio his thoughts of balancing rehabilitation versus incarceration when it comes to punishment.
“If there is a statute or something that allows for diversion or some sort of mental health treatment of course that’s always an option. But there are many crimes where that is not an option so, as a judge you swear to follow the law and you have to follow the law,” he said.
Salorio disclosed that he is a registered Independent, and said political influence from either side of the political isle is unethical and illegal.
“Outside pressure, whether it comes from a community or political parties, again is certainly not allowed,” Salorio explained.
Salorio continues his campaign, running booths at local community events as he gears up for June 2 primaries.