TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) — State attorney Jack Campbell of Florida's Second Judicial Circuit is responding to allegations of racism after a picture of a sentencing guidelines document in the circuit's Jefferson County office referenced "Hispanic" as something to take into consideration.
Campbell's statement, which was provided to ABC 27 Friday, notes that the document was crafted by an entry-level prosecutor.
The document provides a list of customary-plea-offers extended to defendants and accepted by Jefferson County Courts.
One line uses the word "Hispanic".
Campbell said that was a reference to undocumented immigrants who can't get a driver's license, but the use of the word "Hispanic" is not-excusable.
In the statement, Campbell said, "the photographed document does not reflect the policy or procedures of this office or the people who work here. I find it offensive and understand why the public does as well. The criminal justice system should never allow racism or other forms of discrimination to impact our affairs."
Editor's note: This story was updated to reflect the use of the term on the document was unethical.
