New Jersey Judge Who Said Men 'Are In Control' Calls Remarks Misguided

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TRENTON, N.J. (AP) — A New Jersey judge facing discipline after suggesting to a defendant that men "are in control" has acknowledged that the remarks were inappropriate. Municipal Court Judge Steven Brister's response published Monday called the comments "well-meaning but misguided."

Addressing a domestic violence suspect, Brister suggested that men should treat women "as if you're holding a feather, just to let them know you're the man and you're in control."

A state judicial conduct advisory committee posted a complaint in October alleging the comments violated conduct rules, were disparaging to women and could create the perception of bias.

Brister sits in East Orange part-time and is an acting judge in Newark. His response Monday said he has recently completed several ethics courses.