Political Argument Leads To Courtroom Tears
FORT LAUDERDALE (CBSMiami) – Broward County Circuit Judge John Hurley has seen his fair share of sob stories come before him in bond court, but 74-year-old Peter Schwartz is probably near the top of the list.
Schwartz stood before Judge Hurley Wednesday asking for bond after he allegedly slapped his wife while they were arguing about politics.
"I love my wife more than my own life, your honor," Schwartz said through tears. "I'm going to be 75 in a month and a half and my wife is 47 and I treasure her more than my life."
Investigators said the incident happened outside Schwartz' Hollywood condo after the two had an argument over politics.
"Mr. Schwartz," said Circuit Court Judge John Hurley, "the allegation is you slapped your wife as a result of having a heated conversation over the Obama, Romney, I believe is it the debates coming up?"
Schwartz replied, "She said, 'you're like my mother, you like Romney! That means I don't like you.' I said, 'I didn't say I don't like Romney.'"
Schwartz told the judge he's been married to his wife for 24 years and then broke down crying. An attorney shut off his mic during the outburst.
"I've been a good boy to my mother and my father," Schwartz cried. "I gave up my writing to take care of my mother and father."
After the public defender turned off Schwartz' microphone in court, Judge Hurley said, "Oh boy, I definitely wouldn't talk politics with Mr. Schwartz."
The judge set Schwartz' bond at $1,000 and said he cannot go back to their condo or be within 500 feet of his wife.
"Im going to allow you to have telephone contact with your wife," said Judge Hurley. "I live with my wife, she's my life," Schwartz cried.
As Schwartz walked away, Judge Hurley gave some parting advice.
"Ya know, maybe he shouldn't watch the debates tonight," Judge Hurley said.
