Letter to the editor: Orenstein's knowledge

Regarding the letter “Orenstein’s priorities” (Oct. 1, TribLIVE) about District Judge Xander Orenstein’s handling of Yan Carlos Pichardo Cepeda, an accused fentanyl dealer: On the contrary, clearly Orenstein does not know what they are doing. Based upon reporting, Pichardo Cepeda was to be released with an electronic monitor. Again, based upon reporting, only Common Pleas Court judges have the authority/discretion to order an electronic monitor.

However, Magisterial District Judge Eugene Ricciardi (South Side) actually cut Pichardo Cepeda loose. Apparently, Ricciardi (two-term MDJ) was aware that only Common Pleas judges can impose the monitor but neglected to review the “perp’s” (“actor’s”?) file, and as indicated above Ricciardi cut him loose.

The reason I mention this is, 1) to correct the record; and, 2) to inform the voters of the South Side, Oakland and Uptown that Ricciardi now seeks to bequeath the MDJ’s position to his daughter. I’m not a fan of nepotism — it annoys (aggravates) me greatly. Lastly, MDJ Ricciardi’s daughter is a new graduate of Pitt Law, and to my knowledge has yet to have passed the bar, nor, by her own admission, ever tried a case (according to a candidates forum).

Thom Crok

South Side