US District Attorney Jim Ritts Responds to Sentencing Controversy

District Attorney’s Reaction

Canandaigua, N.Y. (WROC) — 10 weekends in jail followed by 10 years probation. That's the punishment for former Rochester Police Officer Shawn Jordan, who admitted to raping a 13-year-old girl. Many expressed outrage over this sentence when it was announced Wednesday, pointing out that some guilty of similar crimes receive years in prison.

Understanding the Sentencing

On Thursday, Ontario County District Attorney Jim Ritts told News 8 why it was the best outcome they could achieve. Ritts acknowledged the community's frustration, calling the sentence 'generous.' “I'm disappointed, truly, that Shawn Jordan did not get the sentence that he deserved,” Ritts said.

• Ritts commended his prosecutor Kelly Wolford and Judge Kristina Karle for their efforts.
• Ritts explained that the judge could have rejected the plea deal but recognized the risks involved for Jordan if prison time were included.
• “Child sex offenders in prison and police officers in prison would compound those things,” Ritts noted.

The Impact of Delayed Disclosure

Ritts elaborated that they had to negotiate the plea due to the delayed disclosure, affecting forensic and medical evidence. He emphasized that having a child testify against an accused can lead to further trauma for the victim. “The re-victimization of a child is always one of the things we have to consider,” he stated.

• The victim and her family were involved throughout the process.
• Jordan must register as a sex offender and is subject to stricter terms of probation.
• Jordan faces additional accusations of sexting a minor, which may lead to further legal implications.