There is no legal authority in the state of Pennsylvania for Allegheny County Judge Lester Nauhaus’ act of shaming former state Supreme Court Justice Joan Orie Melvin by summoning her to his chambers to be forcibly posed handcuffed, then photographed by the county photographer.

After that, Orie Melvin was required to purchase and sign 500 copies with the words “I’m sorry.” A copy is to be sent to every judge in the state.

This was an unforgivable, sadistic act of which Orie Melvin and the people of Pennsylvania deserve better. I don’t believe the judge would have treated a male defendant similarly.

Attorneys and judges should treat all persons in court with dignity.