JUDGE MICHAEL CANTARA’S DECISION TO SET BAIL AT $250 IS MET WITH OUTRAGE

 Portland Press Herald reports Judge Michael Cantara’s” decision to set bail at $250 for a man who is charged with trying to outrun police on the Maine Turnpike was met with outrage Tuesday.”

While I do not believe the reports of the mainstream media, I am concerned about the “officials” who are involved in the stories being reported. The “revolving doors” in Augusta and within the state are of most concern to me. I am aware of the double standard of justice and selective prosecutions by District Attorneys and State Attorneys General “turned” judges.

In this particular case, “the bail was part of an agreement between the prosecutor and defense attorney.”

Michael Cantara began his “political” career as District Attorney of York County. “Deals” were the way of doing business in the D.A.’s office. I, for one, refused his “deal” in 1991. (From the files of Philip Castora, Private Investigator, letter to D.A. Cantara – no action taken.)

In January 2003 Governor Baldacci Cantara nominated Michael Cantara Commissioner of Department of Public Safety. In March of 2003, Mark Lawrence was unanimously selected by York County Democrats to succeed Michael Cantara as District Attorney and complete the unexpired term of former District Attorney Michael Cantara. Mark Lawrence was former president of the Maine Senate (1996 to 2000).

As the “revolving doors” continue in Augusta, in December 2006 Governor John Baldacci nominated Michael P. Cantara for judgeship. States Governor Baldacci, his nominee has ” demonstrated outstanding leadership” and he is “confident that (Michael Cantara) will serve the State with utmost integrity… and wisdom to Maine’s citizens and courts.”

Integrity and wisdom are not the criteria for judgeship, it’s who you know on the other side of the “revolving door.”

For Governor Baldacci’s latest “last minute” appointment, see previous blog

“SENATE CONFIRMS RE-APPOINTMENT OF JUDGE CHRISTINE FOSTER“