League of Women Voters of California Education Fund
	Los Angeles County, CA June 3, 2014 Election
	Candidates Answer Questions on the Issues Judge of the Superior Court; County of Los Angeles; Office 107

The questions were prepared by the League of Women Voters of Los Angeles and asked of all candidates for this office.     See below for questions on Qualifications, Alternative Sentences for Non-Violent Offenders Click on a name for candidate information.   See also more information about this contest. 1. What specific personal qualities make you especially qualified to be a judge? Answer from Emma Castro: I am a person of even temperament; patient; tenacious; and not easily rattled. I am a thoughtful, introspective individual with demonstrated excellent work ethic. I am decisive and a problem solver. I peform my daily job of judging intentionally, honestly and with integrity. Answer from Joan M. Chrostek: My sense of ethics and fairness. I have an open mind, reasoned judgment, patience and intelligence. My willingness to hear both sides and not prejudge the evidence or the parties involved. I am dedicated to public service, and public safety is my top priority. 2. Do you favor alternative sentences for non-violent offenders in view of the current prisoner overcrowding problems, and if so, what options should be available? Answer from Emma Castro: There are certain situations where a defendant has engaged in a non violent crime and where a state prison sentence would be appropriate. However, as a general proposition, I favor blended sentencing which incorporates both punitive and rehabilitive aspects and which is considered a form of alternative sentencing. This type of sentencing not only alleviates over-strapped budgets and limited resources but also helps to ensure the punishment will fit the nature of the crime. Further, public safety concerns should always be considered in structuring the parameters of the sentence. Answer from Joan M. Chrostek: I do favor alternative sentences to non-violent offenders. There are currently options available within the Los Angeles County Court system, including but not limited to; drug court, court dedicated to the the mentally handicapped, court dedicated to those faced with prosecution for solicitation/prostitution, and a court dedicated to service men and women returned from combat with post-traumatic stress disorder. I support all those options, including diversion programs for first time offenders of victimless crimes. Responses to questions asked of each candidate are reproduced as submitted to the League.  Candidates' answers are presented as submitted. The order of the candidates is random and changes daily. Candidates who did not respond are not listed on this page.