UT HR0008

The Utah House of Representatives formally censures Judge Don M. Torgerson of the Seventh District Court for statements made during a May 20, 2025 sentencing hearing involving a defendant convicted of felony child sexual exploitation

Judge Torgerson commented "I've seen worse" after reviewing videos of child sexual assault, and referenced the defendant's "privilege" as a factor in sentencing considerations

The resolution finds Judge Torgerson's conduct prejudicial to the administration of justice and in violation of the Utah Code of Judicial Conduct rules regarding public confidence and bias

The House expresses disappointment in the Utah State Courts for issuing an inaccurate May 28, 2025 statement defending the judge, which incorrectly claimed the prosecutor had agreed to probation when the prosecutor actually requested prison time

A copy of the resolution is directed to be sent to Judge Torgerson, the Judicial Conduct Commission, and the Judicial Council, and recorded in the House Journal