Rabbis Sentenced to Probation in Controversial Evergreen Court Fire Case
Two rabbis, Aaron and Nathaniel Sommer, were sentenced to probation by Judge Kevin Russo for their role in the deadly Evergreen Court Home fire. The rabbis admitted to acting recklessly but had no prior criminal history and were known for their charitable work. The sentencing sparked outcry from the families of the victims and firefighters, who called for jail time. Rockland District Attorney Thomas Walsh defended the plea agreement, stating that the case was unprecedented and going to trial carried the risk of an acquittal. The lenient sentence has been criticized, with calls for Walsh and Russo to resign.