Not to defend a Medicare fraudster . . .

but what is this judge thinking?

A former Miami Springs High pitching star who almost played in the majors threw himself at the mercy of a federal judge Thursday . . . The judge was not amused, slapping Marquez with a 22-year prison sentence for Medicare fraud. . .

"The kingdom of God is not in fancy cars or $60,000 dinners," [U.S. District Judge Patricia] Seitz told the 38-year-old Marquez, whose parents, wife and others attended the hearing. "The kingdom of God is in service to others."

http://www.miamiherald.com/2010/10/08/1862246/convicted-miami-dade-medicare.html

Obviously, the judge violated the First Amendment by bringing up the requirements of "The Kingdom of God" at a sentencing hearing. And, she probably just gave a creative appellate lawyer grounds for appeal (and reversal).

I'm not sure which mistake is more offensive.