Tampa Judge Daniel Perry says "I am over people coming in here and thinking I'm an idiot."
Judge Daniel Perry doesn't like what he sees when inmates from the Hillsborough County jail file into his courtroom. This week he's had to be a judge and the fashion police.
He's delayed court for the three days this week because of saggy pants. On Tuesday, he announced "I don't want to see these people in here again with their rear ends hanging out of their pants. We're done."
Wednesday and Thursday, inmates came in with droopy pants. The judge sent them back with sheriff's deputies to dress more appropriately. Family members are pointing fingers at the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office, saying it should make sure inmates have clothes that fit.
Family member Jessica Cruz says "I think it is kind of disrespectful, because they should be wearing the certain kind of attire that is for the court, and appearance, especially."
The Sheriff's Office declined to comment on this particular wardrobe malfunction on camera, but did issue a statement Thursday morning assuring the judge the clothing issues here at the jail will be taken care of.
The sheriff's office says it understands judges require courtroom decorum both in demeanor and appearance. All inmates will be issued the proper size clothing to wear in court settings.
Michelle Anson, who supports the judge's opinion, says "you can only do so much when you are an inmate. You don't have a right to go out and pick your clothing, you get what they give you."
The sheriff's office says there could be several reasons why the pants don't fit.
The elastic may be worn out or inmates ask for larger sizes but the sheriff's office admits inmates need to be dressed more appropriately when they go to court.
