In a San Joaquin County courtroom, six-year-old Cole Marino clutched his stuffed animals, his small frame trembling as he faced a court order to reunite with the father he accused of abuse. Despite testimony from experts and Cole’s own pleas, Family Court Judge Jonathan Fattarsi questioned whether harm “beyond sexual abuse” would occur if Cole was returned, exposing a justice system ill-equipped to protect its most vulnerable.
Family Court Judge Jonathan Fattarsi stated:
“The truth cannot be found by way of this court—this is the truth in this court’s mind,”
as he questioned whether harm beyond sexual abuse would occur if Cole were returned to his father.
Cole’s therapist, Dr. Kimberly Laskowski, however, delivered compelling testimony that countered the judge’s doubts. With 28 years of experience as a licensed clinical psychologist, Dr. Laskowski stated unequivocally:
“Yes, for emotional and physical abuse.”
This response came after Fattarsi asked her directly whether, independent of sexual abuse allegations, she had concerns about Cole being returned to his father.