Saintjour v. State

BASKIN, Judge.

During trial proceedings for Haitian defendant Saintjour, the trial judge remarked:

THE COURT: ...

I think it’s a shame people come here and do not try to learn our language. However, they might learn something if they sit here for awhile.

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It is important to make an effort so you can be able to understand. It is incumbent upon all of you to go ahead and make an attempt to learn English.

The next day, the trial judge sought to cure any prejudice she may have caused defendant, stating:

THE COURT: ...

I made a remark yesterday in reference to people who are citizens and as…