"How do you prepare a steak?": The unusual conversation between a judge and a domestic violence defendant

Broward County, Florida Judge Alison Gillman faced public criticism after a bail hearing for a domestic violence defendant turned into a lighthearted conversation about cooking steak. Advocacy groups attacked the amused tone.

Broward County, Florida Judge Alison Gillman faced sharp public criticism after a bail hearing for a domestic violence defendant devolved into a lighthearted conversation about cooking steak. The incident occurred during a hearing for Christopher Johnson, a chef arrested on suspicion of pulling his ex-girlfriend's hair and punching her in the mouth, an assault that left her with a swollen lip. Court records show Johnson had previously been arrested on suspicion of aggravated assault of the same woman while she was pregnant. At the hearing, his bail was set at $1,500 and a no-contact order was issued with the victim. In footage that was circulated, the judge is seen asking Johnson professional questions about his work, and even joked that she would visit the restaurant where he works. Advocacy groups, including Dr. Linda Parker from the Broward County Victim Assistance Organization, attacked the conduct and argued that the amused tone sends a harmful message to survivors. Reports indicate this is not the first time the judge has incorporated culinary conversation into her courtroom.