Another disappointment with the system......

My experience was horrible!  I called the District Attorney and complained about all the BS I've been going through with wrong phone numbers, no one gives information, running around getting the restraining order in place. I needed information now and I was CONTINUOUSLY referred to my victim advocate who was away from the office for approximately 1 week....and of course,..YOU ALWAYS GET VOICE MAIL!  Don't think about hitting zero for an operator, because you will not get one.  


Again I called the District Attorney and asked about my next step..do I need to go to his arraignment.  I specifically asked the DA if it would make a difference if I attended. If I read a victim statement here will it make a difference? I was advised not to attend the arraignment because all they do is read the charges and it's over very quick.  She said, "you live over 2 hours away don't make the drive for it.  You will definitely want to be here for sentencing.  If you would like to read a victim statement please let the person who checks you in know and we will be advised." I then informed her to count on me attending his sentencing and I will be reading a victim statement. Please note it.  

I again asked the DA to run me through the process so I will know what to expect and plan accordingly.  Again, advised not to attend the arraignment.

Well, I don't want anyone to make the same mistake I made.. I listening and did not go. I made a follow up phone call to the DA later that afternoon and she said, "he pled guilty," as we were talking she said, "he actually pled Nolo contendere." it is a guilty plea. Ok, so what else..what do I do....next step?  And why did he plea Nolo contendere?  oh please- they made a deal! 

Today I feel that I should have gone to the arraignment.  I would have read a letter to the judge and court room.  I would ask that the photos of my injuries be reviewed and he should not be given a choice whether or not to see the attack photos.   The judge read the probation report which was for suspect B. and the probation officers interview..HE LIED and LIED . If the probation report wasn't so long I would add it...I might add some... not sure yet.  I believe my presence would have made a difference in his sentence.  I'm shocked, appalled and so disappointed  with his sentence. I did not know at this time that I should have attended...the reason I feel this way was due to the sentencing...the judge made a comment to the suspect and said, "I did not realize your issues were severe," or something to that nature...I was standing in disbelief................HOW DO YOU NOT KNOW? WHAT? He was standing up looking straight forward all protected...and given the right to tell me he does not want to see the pictures of what he did to me!!!!! Judge, why does he have the right to tell me no?  It was HIS choice...WOW!  Is this really happening? My lesson learned was "Go with your gut!"  I should have attended the arraignment and read MY victim statement.  I saw the impact my letter had on the court and the entire room during sentencing...  but too late, the decision was already made at the arraignment.  I guess that is why I was told not to go....hmmmm.  I'm pondering that......(next my recollection of sentencing).