I took it as having a tremendous amount of concern for "his" people, and being willing to let them know he cared, and that it was hurtful to see them there.

Kudos to this judge, and I'll bet he does a good share of community service things himself!

If what he said has started something that changes the lives of even one or two, gives them the motivation to work on their lives, then he succeeded.

This judge is a truth teller and to me, a fine person.

__________________
"A long habit of thinking a thing not wrong gives it a superficial appearance of being right." - Thomas Paine, from Common Sense ~~~~ The fact that an opinion has been widely held is no evidence whatever that it is not utterly absurd. Indeed in view of the silliness of the majority of mankind, a widespread belief is more likely to be foolish than sensible. - Bertrand Russell