On Wednesday, May 21, 2026, FOX26 News reported that a formal complaint was filed against a judge with the California Commission on Judicial Performance concerning the handling of Carl Cacconie’s case.
The complaint was filed by the mother of Cacconie’s victim, alleging judicial misconduct in the case where Cacconie was convicted of six felony counts of lewd acts on a child under 14 in July 2025. Cacconie subsequently failed to appear for sentencing and has been a fugitive for approximately 10 months.
Alana Ramirez, the victim’s mother, expressed her belief that the judge should face consequences for critical decision-making during the case. Her daughter, identified as Mel, was 11 years old when the abuse began.
The complaint highlights that the judge acknowledged the case involved cruelty, a particularly vulnerable victim, planning, sophistication, and evidence of prior predatory behavior. Despite these findings, Cacconie was allowed to remain free on bail while awaiting sentencing, a decision that has drawn criticism.
Ramirez and her daughter hope that by speaking out, they can prevent similar situations from occurring in the future. They felt the justice system failed to protect them when Cacconie was released, a sentiment reinforced by other judges who publicly stated they would not have allowed him to remain out of custody. Mel stated that hearing the opinions of superior judges validated their feelings.
Cacconie remains wanted, and authorities are offering a $1,000 reward for information leading to his arrest. Tips can be submitted to Sacramento Valley Crime Stoppers.
FOX26 News contacted Ladoris Hazzard Cordell, a retired California Superior Court Judge and former Santa Clara County judge, for comment. Cordell stated that complaints based solely on disagreement with lawful judicial decisions lack merit and that such complaints could undermine judicial independence. She added that if the judge’s decision was lawful, then he had done nothing improper to merit discipline by the Commission.
The commission will review the complaint to determine if further action is warranted. Ramirez stated that the family is determined to continue pushing for accountability.
Source: FOX26 News
