YOUR COMMENTS

The double standard that allows him to get off with a slap on the wrist is what bothers me. Just like the sheriffs deputy here who killed a motorcyclist while driving drunk off-duty and was aquited of criminal charges. "Protect and serve" my ass, they protect and serve each other, not us, their employers.
- Dan, Rochester, NY

Drag queening is not a crime; but drunk driving IS, and not only was he DUI but he actually hit another vehicle.

This is a guy who is sitting in judgment on other people? I am glad he resigned from the bench and I don't want to add to his embarrassment, but the idea that he being a federal judge would get behind the wheel of a car intoxicated, strikes me as reprehensible.

Don't confuse drag queens with gays; most of them are actually straight. Transvestism is not the same as homosexuality.
- jgmurphy, Skokie IL

I actually feel for this fella....cause I am only going on others saying so but truly, he could have avoided all of this just by 'hailing a taxi'.
Isn't that what one is supposed to do when they leave a place drunk? Plus, since it was late into the nite he probably wouldn't have been noticed by the police or even his neighbours.
- Beverly Cochrane, Squamish

Cross dressers are not necessarily homosexuals. Some are straight men.

Those who say this is none of our business are correct. It is our business, certainly, that he got drunk and hit another car while intoxicated. He could have easily killed someone. That is our business.

The phony piousness of the Republican Party is to blame for the sensationalism. The gay hating GOP, with an emphasis on "family values" has set itself up for a fall by pretending that their party isn't full of perverts and degenerates whom most of wouldn't trust around the family dog. It's mighty hard not to laugh and point a finger when the hypocrisy of the GOP is revealed, drunk and wearing stiletto heels.
- Susan Bruce, Jackson

I'm impressed he could drive and walk in heels. I'm sure he used equally good judgement on the bench.
- robert leach, san antonio texas

The Mercedes he was driving DUI could kill, certainly.

But as much as some of you would like to think otherwise, his purse, his stockings and his dress never hurt another human being.

Perhaps some of your 'fine upstanding Americans' would like nothing better than to beat up this man for his personal choices.

Oh.

By the way, the Boston Herald reports that George Walker Bush appointed this man to the bench.

Simply for what it's worth.
Have a great evening.
- S. Katz, Bedford

Some of you people posting comments here are even more disturbed than the judge. Lets see if I can talk some sense into you.

Yes, the headline is sensational. So are the facts. Granted, its not against the law to be a flaming queen, but drunk driving is. Its very sensational when a federal judge is caught doing such things. Higher standard indeed.

Judge Somma went out of his way to conceal his actions. Why? Because he knew he and his family would be humiliated. A lot of government officials have gone to a lot of trouble to cover up their affairs and perversions. When these actions are exposed, it is actually the job of those in the media business to jump all over the story and turn it into a circus. We, as citizens, have every right to point and scoff and laugh at this fool.

To his upperclass friends trying to defend him here; you can dry your tears with a fistful of hundred dollar bills, and just be glad he wasnt caught in the act of cheating on his wife with another man. To the others supporting him? I cant think of much to say that wouldnt sound homophobic. Maybe you can meet up at the club again, since he is bound to have lots of free time on his hands.
- Chris, Portland, ME

Yes, it's bad that he drove drunk. Yes, it's not our business what he does in his free time is not our business... but this is just hilarious...
- Mike, Merrimack

What is shocking, is that anyone is sticking up for this kind of behavior, in any judge.
Cross dressing is an embarrassment.
Drunk drinking is a crime.
A judge must avoid the appearance of impropriety. This one, at age 62, has serious mental problems, and must be removed from the bench. The judicial system is already compromised in legitimacy, with the various decisions of late, of the Supreme Court.
This only adds to the scandals, and casts a negative light on the legal system.
This will not be tolerated in any open legal system, and it cannot be defended.
- Katz Friedman, New Windsor, MD

If it was such a little problem ,Why did he feel he had to go OUT of town while his beloved was AWAY? If it is normal why not come out on during Tuesday lunch at the local lunch pub?
- Paul, Martinsville,IN

It must have been so darn funny to see him dressed up as a woman, not able to hold his balance and stinking to high heaven. I am sure his wife is aware of his abnormality.
- Rose Young-Stewart, Whitney Point, NY 13862

I enjoyed the comments you folks up North made on the Judge's behavior. Live Free or Die is an excellent motto. Maybe up there you should change it to Live Secretly and Drive Drunk.
- Norm Worrell, Chincoteague, VA

Open your eyes people......Our nations days are numbered. On this earth everything lives by a a set of laws. The laws of nature have been overidden by we Americans for far too long. Not to mention our own founding documents.
Example: The bleeding hearts who see this man as innocent and worthy of sitting in judgement of his fellow man..error is that fellow woman?
- Leo, Barnstead

Open your eyes people......Our nations days are numbered. On this earth everything lives by a a set of laws. The laws of nature have been overidden by we Americans for far too long. Not to mention our own founding documents.
Example: The bleeding hearts who see this man as innocent and worthy of sitting in judgement of his fellow man..error is that fellow woman?
- Leo, Barnstead

Any public official is supposed to be held to a higher standard of behavior...one reason why they won't let just ANYONE be a judge. You are supposed to be of "good moral character." Drinking and driving don't fall into this category, and I don't believe cross dressing does, either. It is outside of the social accepted norm. Yes, we all have a right to do "weird" things in the privacy of our homes, but when you set foot OUTSIDE of your home, you lose any expectation of privacy. Sorry, that's just the way it is.

As far as some people saying that the judge was treated the same as any other citizen when it comes to DUI: a friend of mine was in court about 2 weeks ago as a witness in a traffic case. There was another case that day, a young man with his first DUI offense. He got 6 months. What's wrong with this picture? I was pretty sure you folks just said the penalty is the same for everyone. Maybe it is in la la land.
- Donna S, Manchester

TO: Frank Kirby,

This judege who holds judgement over others each and every day, ruining lives and often not having any sympathy for others in their trying times, and you want us to pray for his recovery because of the sickness he brought upon himself and others of his family an community?

What about his wife? Lets pray for this poor victim of her husbands traitorist actions upon her. What about the humility to his wife and the people of his town? A man in his position should be dignified! His choices were not or else they would not have been important enough for the media to jump on.

Homosexuality is not acceptable to all simply because some say it should be. And the defense that he is homosexual and possibly being picked on doesn't work here. He put other peoples lives in jeapardy by driving drunk. And he has the audacity to judge others in his court while his perversion and drunkedness causes other harm and embarassment.

He is not above the law. Let him face judgement for once and feel what he has put others through for many years. He's a hypocrite!
- Rick Cornelison Sr., Toledo Ohio

TO: Frank Kirby,

This judege who holds judgement over others each and every day, ruining lives and often not having any sympathy for others in their trying times, and you want us to pray for his recovery because of the sickness he brought upon himself and others of his family an community?

What about his wife? Lets pray for this poor victim of her husbands traitorist actions upon her. What about the humility to his wife and the people of his town? A man in his position should be dignified! His choices were not or else they would not have been important enough for the media to jump on.

Homosexuality is not acceptable to all simply because some say it should be. And the defense that he is homosexual and possibly being picked on doesn't work here. He put other peoples lives in jeapardy by driving drunk. And he has the audacity to judge others in his court while his perversion and drunkedness causes other harm and embarassment.

He is not above the law. Let him face judgement for once and feel what he has put others through for many years. He's a hypocrite!
- Rick Cornelison Sr., Toledo Ohio

Look, the guy waited until his wife was out of town, dressed up like a prostitute, drove to a town where he wouldn't be recognized, got drunk in a gay bar, and drove home drunk. Give him a break. It's not like he did anything compulsive or dysfunctional-- like serially having anonymous unprotected sex in the bar's bathroom, or that he's ever done anything like this before. A lot. Whenever he thought he could get away with it. Nope. No reason to think that.
- Rick, Nashua

I am a bankruptcy attorney, and have been practicing for many years. Judge Somma was a good judge, and I respect him. He was a good lawyer before he went on the bench. Everyone is quick to jump to conclusions. If alcohol abuse is a significant part of this situation, put down your stones, and pray for his recovery!
- Frank Kirby, Rocky Hill, Connecticut

His wife was away so he goes out in drag to what, have an fling with another man? He thereby exposes his wife to the risk of AIDS and STDs and you see nothing wrong with that?

Further, his "private' behavior became public when he broke the law by driving so drunk that he rammed a stopped car.
- OBM, Nashua

You people should be ashamed of yourselves. Robert Somma is an extremely wonderful man, and what he does on personal time is his own business. We have evolved as a society past sort of base ridicule and vapid finger pointing, haven't we? He who lives in glass houses...
- Kate, Boston, MA

Why are Judges above the law? It seems that this type of thing (judges or politicians) get an easy deal from the courts compared to the average citizen, who would go to jail for this. He didn't even get a first court date before it was settled. The buddy system for the politically correct continues to protect and defend the perverted judges who buy and sell their influences.
Ken Scott, Winter Park, Colorado
- Scott, Kenneth, Winter Park, Colorado

This helps explain Boston and those that support this behavior.
- jlb, Sacramento, CA

Judge Somma took responsibility for his bad choice of drinking and driving by entering a "no contest" plea. In my mind, that is a refreshing example of someone actually taking personal responsibility for their conduct. These days you don't find many people willing to do that.

His career and public service can stand on their own merits. For those who are afraid that he might be a freak, I'd suggest that you review his work as a judge and actually see if you can find any substance to support your own fears about his personal life affecting his work in the past. Then get back to us.

Your fears and negative comments have more to do with you than with him.
- Maggie, Boston, MA

"So what if he cross-dressed. It's 2008."

Maybe thats precisely the problem. From drunken driving to having children out of wedlock, to drug use. There use to be some social stigma attached to "bad" behaviour.
No one has suggested, so far, that the good Judge made a wise decision to drink and drive. But the No Moral Judgements, and Anyting Goes mentality is what is driving society to record levels of crime, homelessness, and STD's.
- Jeffersonian, Phoenix AZ

As a Manchester resident , I'm not bothered by the bigots hateful postings. But what does disturb me is that some of these bigoted goofs then go out to actively abuse and threaten , and even physically assault gays and CD's in Manchester-and as a Transsexual female, and thus taller then the average, the violence then spills over to me, when these redneck townie loons assume I must be a guy in drag, and as such a easy target. While I'm grateful I'm not afraid to use a weapon to protect my life, especially since the local city cops are generally just as bad as the rednecks when it comes to anyone GLBT, it's kinda sad that the only protection I have is what I can provide myself.
- Danni Lee Leonard, Manchester, NH

At least he had the decency to wear a black cocktail dress. No decent and moral judge would wear white after Labor Day.
- Aaron, Laconia

The UL reported "facts". Is it relevant to the case of drunk driving? NO. But no matter what you think it is not "normal" (being most men don't wear dresses especially in public) so it "is" part of the story. The UL didn't "judge" anyone, the people making comments on this blog are making judgements.
- Mark, San Antonio, TX

The unfortunate thing, outside of the family issues, is that anyone with knowledge of the former judge's "dirty little secret" would have power to influence his judicial decisions.
- Greta, Lyndeborough

I don't think that his manner of dress should have been an issue. One of the things that I love about living in NH is our state motto "Live free or Die". Even though New Hamshire is a conservative state, we hold dearly our right to live freely. The Union Leader in my opinion needs to take a course on Diversity. I think that the newspaers and news stations that reported this story without addressing the crossdressing issue did a great job of reporting the real story. Thanks to those stations and newspapers for holding on to our freedoms values. Shame on the Union Leader for being so calloused.
- Tim, Manchester

Do we (USA) really need people like this
in charge of or laws.
Extremely poor judgement, when he can't decide if he is a man or a women.
Wonder how his wife feels now and how long he has kept this from her?
- H.E.BROWN, Urbana, OH

The story is a Federal Judge gets 'popped' for DWI. End of Story. How he chooses to live his life is not for us to decide, nor judge (no pun intended). He lived w/in the law (Until the DWI Charge) and that is enough. He got punished for his 'mis-step' that is enough, that he loses his livelyhood over this is tragic and a little too far I think.

Never mind he was DRUNK, I would surmise that he was impaired or he would not have been arrested, so I will withhold comment on his fashion sense and appearance, and just thank the MPD for doing thier job - getting another drunk off the streets keeping the rest of the driver safe.
- Timothy lang, Sanbornton, NH

Leave this man alone. I challenge anyone to show me a life that is free of mistakes, or a person who doesn't have something they'd like to be kept on the low down. Our society loves to point and laugh, it is a very base way for others to inflate their own self worth.

Nobody has mentioned that for 30 years he has had an amazing career, is well respected, a wonderful father, husband and friend to many. There are far worse things that people do folks, this is truly harmless stuff. His only mistake was driving after he had been drinking, and he paid his dues for it. Leave him alone.
- KR, MA

Ann Marie in Boston your right, what the judge does on his own time is nobody else’s business. Right up until he drives his car into the back of someone else’ car. Then what the judge does is everyone’s business.

Lee in Lowell thanks for the apology. Now if you people in Mass would just take a few of the freaks back. And believe it or not I’m not talking about the judge, I’m talking about two thirds of our state legislature.

Ray in Nashua your still TRYING to picture Abe Vigoda in a dress; I still can’t get that picture out of my head. I even took all of my wife’s cocktail dresses, fishnet stockings, and high heels down to the Salvation Army donation boxes last night. Once I do get that image out of my head, I don’t want to take any change of having flash backs………
- Dan, Nashua

Folks? The crime committed was DUI, not being a guy wearing a dress. Unusual? Yes. Unlawful? No.

Would it have made any difference if this idiot was driving drunk wearing a- men's- suit and tie?

Focus people, focus.
- RJ, Wenham, MA

Thanks UL for telling the whole story...don't the libs get to ya!
- Bill, Deerfield

There is no place for this in society at any level. This disgusting behavior needs to be discouraged. Sadly, it appears to be accepted as normal in Massachusetts.
- Bill Mitchell, Groveland, MA

I am a neighbor of former judge somma, if all of you people in his "corner" are so proud of your secret lives, then why are they so secret? We certainly don't need people judging our lives, that can't even admit who they are in their own lives. I think it was very telling that he told the police his wife was "out of town", meaning to me that he isn't even honest with his own wife as to who is really is. I am sure that if she knew she would not have allowed him to wear a cocktail dress, fishnets and heels on a below zero night in NH...and I bet she is not happy about the large dent in the Benz...enough, all of you "alternatives" if you want to live secret lives, don't drive drunk in a little black dress and high heels unless you are the very good looking wife (meaning female) of one of these officials who continually get slapped on the wrist for such indiscretions.
- Kathy Brown, newbury ma

I'm sorry. I'm about halfway through the comments and I can't take any more. The number of folks who use the forum to disparage anyone who thinks this guy ain't firing on all 8 is just disturbing. They're more concerned with whether people consider him to be a perv or not. Hell, yes. He's a perv. OK, now that we've established that, does it matter much? In the grand scheme of things, no. We went over the edge a long time ago on that one. The funny thing is, the bible-beaters are just as ridiculous to read as the moonbats from Cambridge with their "kumbaya" crap.
Bottom line kids: He's gonna be judged as being weird by most of society. That's because he IS weird. Is being weird a crime? No, but, as someone else mentioned, we want to hold our public officials to a higher standard. If you don't like the cross-dressing, I think that this qualifies; if you don't like the DWI, I think that this qualifies. I think in this case you've hit the Daily Double. Fire his ass.

All you moonbats? Get a life!
All you bible thumpers? Ditto.
Next topic!
- NC Steve, Mebane, NC

Well except for the fact that this clown could have hurt someone this story is pretty funny and I give the UL credit for not being PC and hiding the fact that a perverted FEDERAL JUDGE someone who's decisions will make or break peoples lives was exposed for the fraud that he was. If he can't live his life honestly how can he pass JUDGEMENT on others?

I will not go down the path of this is normal as Heather seems to think because it is not. I will not pass judgement on the behaviour at all. Let this mans wife and friends do that. The guy was living a lie.

To me this is just another funny story about how perverted we have become and the fact that so many people defend it. It made for great farder on the radio waves today.(Is Ted in the house?)


Just remember don't drink and drive you could hit a bump and spill your drink on an expensive little black cocktail dress.
- Brian, Laconia

Who does Timothy Hafner in Concord think he is by saying that men who dress as women are mentally ill. I think PEOPLE who have a closed mind to issues other than themselves are mentally ill themselves and need to be put on Jimmy's Island with all the other freakshows and let God deal with them.
- Ross Parker, Wolfeboro

I'm still trying to picture Abe Vigoda in a dress and fishnet stockings.
- Ray, Nashau

Personally, while I agree that it's deplorable for a judge to drink and drive I think it sucks that he's having to pay with his job for something that's well within his rights.

I know that lots of people are freaked out by cross dressers, assume they're gay, and have generally negative reactions to them. Like 90 percent of cross dressers are *not* gay, however. They're straight guys that (basically) really enjoy acting out the whole lesbian fantasy with themselves cast in the role of the other girl. Twisted, naughty as hell, but not gay.

Look people, all religious shame and moral upbringing aside, sex and occasional kinky stuff are NORMAL. I have married friends who playact this way all the time. In my opinion our reaction to hearing that a judge was found dressed in women's underwear should be to shrug our shoulders and say "Who cares?"

The judge was driving drunk and indiscreet. Yes, he deserves to lose his job for driving drunk. But he doesn't have "mental problems", isn't a "freak", and he doesn't deserve to be shamed.
- Klicrai, Seattle

Any man who would dress as a women HAS SERIOUS MENTAL ISSUES and I do want that that person pretending to issue "SOUND JUDGMENT" on anything. The guy is a freaking screwballl!!!!
- Mike, Cocord

Drinking and driving a serious offense, no question. Unfortunately, it will continue to exist until the next prohibition.
But dude, this guy was dressed to the nines! My wife doesn't dress like that! LOL. He makes a pretty ugly woman, though, doesn't he/she?
He will carry his shame to the grave
I imagine trying to explain what happened to the wife?
And I didn't realize there were so many gay bars around Manchester.
- Tom Donovan, Hooksett

Cross dressing or being gay doesn't make you a 'freak show.'

Driving drunk is the crime. I think he is paying more than any other since the UL decided to publish the details of his 'attire'. Tabloid!
- B, Manchester

Men who dress as women on days other than Halloween are screwed-up perverts. They may be sweet, or harmless, or they may not. But they are certainly mentally ill, and condoning it as normal (as in "mentally healthy") is ridiculous.

The guy does have a right to be a freak show and a fool and a harmless pervert. We have no right to deny him ordinary rights on that basis. But, judges should have the respect of the public, and this stupidity disqualifies this joker from getting the public's respect. I won't lower the bar that low.
- Timothy Hafner, Concord

Clearly there are some men who have commented that fear that their manhood is being challenged here. I've known some very 'macho' men that have no problem wearing their wife's lingerie and being silly.

As to his plea, he got what John Q Public gets for a similar offense. Should he be held to a higher standard? I'm not so sure. After all, he's just like us - a human being prone to make mistakes.
- Donna, Manchester

Dear New Hampshire Neighbors,

I am sorry that 'another-one' of our 'morally- bankrupt' citizens had recently escaped to your area.

Butt it seems that most of "them" can not help themselves, or help anyone for that matter.

Federal Bankruptcy Judge Robert Somma won't be 'helping' anyone any longer, as he has finally done 'the-right-thing" by resigning today.

Too late for Manchester, since the Judge/horse is already out of the Breezeway/barn.

My personal apologies to all you good people of New Hampshire.

God's Speed,...Live-free-or-
Die!!
- Lee, Lowell, Massachusetts

Judge Robert Somma is a good and decent man. What he does on his own time is nobodys business.
- AnnMarie, Boston MA

The only thing I have a problem with is the slap on the wrist punishment. A $600.00 dollar fine and loss of license for 1 year. I just read the article on Lamy...have we not learned anything?
- Samanatha, NH

What can one say? The judge is just a flamboyant and out-going type of guy. Another embarrassment for MA.
- Vinnie, Tewksbury, MA

he's lucky not to be dealing with a manslaughter charge. no wonder people drive drunk in NH, why not what is a slap on the wrist?
- matt, concord.nh

I respect everyones right to live their own lives as they see fit. It is not my place to judge someone for cross dressing. However, if you are in a position of authority you are held to a higher standards. The thing that bothers me is that he chose to come to NH to do it......he should stay in Massachusetts......
- Diane, Londonderry

I can not believe some of the comments I have read here! I am disgusted!

First of all, this is a PERSON we are talking about. He is a human being. Did he screw up? Yes, when he decided to drink and drive. He is not the first person to do it, and I guarantee he won't be the last. Should he know better than to do it, because he is a judge? Yes. But, again, he is not the first person in that type of position of authority to screw up (we have police officers; fire fighters;and profession athletes that kids look up to, etc that have been guilty of DUI and more).
Secondly, who the hell cares what he was wearing?! Just because he is a cross dresser does not make him a freak as some of you think! Before people start judging him, they need to take a good look at themselves first. Everyone has their own little "deviant" behaviors that they are "guilty" of. Who's to say what is "normal". (also, being gay and being a cross dresser are two different things! Do some research!)

Finally, I know many cross dressers. The majority of them you would not even know their little "secret". They are doctors, lawyers, dads, computer people, etc. You may even have someone in your family who does it - and because of society's distorted views, they feel they have to "hide out" or visit other towns to be themselves. His wife may even know...she may be ok with it. It may be okay in their relationship. Leave them alone.

Judge him on his actions of drinking and driving, but not on how he decides to dress. (that is none of our business!)
- Heather, Manchester,NH

I completely agree with John D from Manchester. The headline of this article is a disgrace (to the UL) and something I would expect see on the cover of a tabloid in the checkout line of a grocery store. That headline was used as a way to enrage people and encourage their ridiculous, narrow-minded comments. Mike from Concord says, "compare the number of responses to this article to others on the front page and you'll see what kind of stories the readership craves and the UL is simply supplying for the demand". There are about 30 comments on this page. I'm assuming there are more than 30 readers, so how about supplying the demand of the rest of the readers who aren't interested in this garbage tabloid gossip. This is the last time I go to this webpage for news, since it clearly isn't intended to report the news at all, it's just intended to be a forum for people who want to complain and bring other people down every chance they get. This was a sick tabloid story, and the comments calling this man a freak show are equally sick and disturbing. This comment section has made the UL go from "so-so" reporting to junk. Bye UL. Can't wait to get some real news for a change.
- Jenn, Manchester

I disagree with the UL in printing this headline, but if you look they have done thier job. This article has more user comments than almost all the other articles in this online edition. Sell, sell, sell, that is what this article is all about...
- ML, Derry, NH

Another great day of reading people's comments -thanks UL. My take is this is very worthy of print. I recall thinking how nice is was for him to step and take responsiblilty for his crime. Now I think very different. He was probaly avoiding this little tidbit from coming out. A federal judge certainly risks his or her career by questionable behavior. He risked lives and indeed did hurt someone. The police did not release this information because they were probaly threatened with a lawsuit by this little princess. Could not figure out the mention of the purse before today. Yes, I find this behavior disturbing.
- brian, weare

How "decent" of a man would this judge have been had he killed someone on his ride home or even worse..put his car in reverse and plowed through the Breezeway!
- Peter, Manchester

I read yesterday's article describing the charges against Mr. Somma, and I had to say I did chuckle a bit when I read that he was fumbling for his license in his purse. It’s out of the norm, but is it necessary to embarrass this man any more than a DUI conviction already will? I am gay myself, and I have been to the bar that he was at before. Although I would never dress in women's clothing, I don't judge people for the things that they do that don't affect other people. Clearly this is something that he likes to do on occasion. He went to an establishment that doesn't judge people for how they are dressed, their sexual orientation, and has a variety of people from all walks of like that patronize it.

What bothered me most was the constant reference of yesterday's article to how he was dressed. Today's headline states that he was dressed in women's clothing. It makes me sad that the focus is more on his attire than the fact that a federal judge was driving intoxicated and could have seriously injured himself or someone else. That in itself should be embarassing enough for this man, especially considering his profession. I'm sure he will be looked down on by his peers for the DUI conviction. I think the only person that has the right to judge him on his attire would be his wife. She could be perfectly fine with it, but frankly that's none of our business.

Maybe I'm just more open-minded than most people because I've been around people like Mr. Somma more. In my mind the way someone dresses or looks doesn't say anything about their character or their integrity. I cannot believe that the Union Leader ran a story today with his attire being the headline. Judging from some of the comments of yesterday's article I'm sort of gathering I'm not alone in this thought process. Pointing out things like cross-dressing and throwing it as a major headline only increases people's ignorance and bigotry towards people that don't fit the normal mold of society. I'm not so sure it's even newsworthy. The real story here is that he drank too much, hit someone else with his car, and will be punished for making such a poor decision.

I haven't seen a report on what other drunk drivers are wearing. I guess the guy that gets stopped in Allenstown in his ripped sweatpants and stained tshirt holding a budweiser between his legs while driving isn't quite as newsworthy to the readers of this newspaper. If we’re going to start pointing out how people are dressed while committing crimes then we might as well change the newspaper’s name to Perez Hilton.com or TMZ. Maybe a little stroll on the catwalk during the booking process is in order.
- Jake, Bedford

Bob Somma is a good and decent man and a careful, intelligent and fair judge. Discussions about this error in judgment should bear that in mind.
- Jim Wilton, Boston, MA

Drinking and driving is too dangerous to risk. But cross-dressing, pure comdey!
- Jesse, Candia

the federal judicial system should review all the judge's decisions since he became a judge especially since this incident indicates that he is not of or ever was of rational mind and he could have been drinking a gin and tonic or wearing too tight panty hose when he wrote his decisions. the court system should throw the book at him and the press should further investigate him.
- jeff, boston. ma

What does the 2008 have to do with anything? There is no such thing as MORALS anymore, nor do our kids have any Heroes to look up to, if it's not steroids, it's this weird stuff. I'm ready to move to another Planet, this one has been invaded! And why does this judge, a so called "pillar of the community' just get a slap on the hand, great justice!
- Sandy, Manchester,NH

Anyone ever see the old Monty Python judges sketch? Go to Youtube and search under 'Monty Python judges'.....
- Jim B, Manchester

Just when you think the UL has gone as low as it can, this paper takes it down another notch. First of all, your agenda is grossly transparent. Where were the multi-day home page articles when nationally-prominent Republican figures were getting arrested for "gay" foot-tapping in public restrooms or resigning for overt flirting with young Congressional pages?? Second, whatever happened to "Just the facts, ma'am"?? This tabloid spin is garbage. I'm so thoroughly disgusted with this newspaper -- the Concord Monitor really needs to step up and become an alternate state-wide news source. UL: it is 2008, wake up and smell the pluralism finally happening in this state, and let go of the long-passed glory days of New Hampshire's foolishly stubborn and short-sighted "conservatism." Wait, better yet, don't bother - perhaps you'll write yourselves into complete irrelevance even faster. Disgusting.
- John D., Manchester

This is an outrage. What was this judge thinking. It is Valentine Week, he should be wearing a red dress with the matching white stockings. Bad enough he is drunk, but at least he could use some better judgement when dressing for a big night out.
- Thomas, Manchester, NH

It seems that the judge received the mandatory minimums which is often available to anyone arrested for DUI under the same circumstances(not aggravated no collisions etc)
- Chip, Hooksett

The life of a cop -

Coffee at Dunkin’ Donuts - $1.89
Chicken Salad at Souvlaki’s - $5.00
Shinny silver badge - $45.00
Fancy police cruiser - $23,000.00
Popping a drunken, cross-dressing federal court judge in full make-up for DWI - Priceless
- Leon, Manchester

Ignore all the PC nonsense and face the facts: we don't live in Thailand. A man in a dress with stockings and a purse is a freak. You can't spin it any other way.

It is clear that this man is deeply disturbed and needs professional help. No doubt any one of his personal problems makes him unfit to sit on a Federal Court.
- George A, Dover

Union Leader, this piece is expoitive and you should be ashamed that you consider it newsworthy. Take the judge to task for the DUI, by all means! But acting like you're a cheap tabloid? When I come to this site, I expect news, not dirt.
- Jennifer, Manchester

Just goes to show you. There's only one qualified to judge and that's GOD. To each his own as far as how he dresses. It seems with some aspects of law enforcement its do as I say not as I do...
- T.C., Manchester, NH

Wow....I have frequented several different bars in my life time but can't say I've ever been 'proud' that I was a regular at any of them. I am kind of curious, james, what specifically made you 'feel priveledge and honor to have met this man at the Breezeway"? (Remember...what SPECIFICALLY made you feel this way). Secondly, were you proud to have met this 'gentleman' or proud of having met the 'gentleman' at the Breezeway? I'm just curious as your statement is unclear on this point. I would also disagree that he 'didn't hurt anyone'....his wife, family and coworkers may disagree also. In addition, He didn't physically hurt anyone solely on luck. He crashed his car drunk. He lied to his wife. He drove to another state where no one would recognize him so he could behave in a particular manner. For those 3 actions there should be consequences.....especially for a judge (Even a bankrupty judge). His dress and location that evening are not under indictment. His actions and decision making are. Granted, the UL sensationalized this.....but compare the number of responses to this article to others on the front page and you'll see what kind of stories the readership craves and the UL is simply supplying for the demand.
- Mike, Concord

his attire is irrelavant. my concern is that a federal judge was involved in an accident, while driving drunk, and got a slap on the wrist. garbage.
- j, manchester

Everyone who has called him a freak show are bigots. You should be ashamed. He committed a crime and he will pay for it.
- Tim, Manchester

Does anyone for the slightest moment think a cross dressing and possibly gay judicial member is something new? There are no laws dictating what a judge can do after hours (well besides not drinking and driving). You may view him as a freak, but you would be very suprised who does things like this. People are very quiet about their personal choices, so before you go judging (no pun intended) people, you best look at your own friends and neighbors first. What he does outisde of work doesn't dictate who he is in court. I guess in the public's eye if he was a womanizing alcoholic it would be more appropriate....
- MB, Manchester

I am also a patron of the Breezeway. I have also been known to dress in "alternative' style. That's my choice. I am treated fairly at this club. I have also frequently been to Raxx. They have also been very kind to me. Believe it or not, but most of the patrons at Raxx don't even know that I am a man. Thank you for treating us like human beings.
- thomas, manchester

This is why Ma. and this Government is so screwed up. This is why good is now bad, and bad is good.
"The mind that alters, alters all". William Blake
- Ed Stanley, Hookset

I frequent the Breezeay and I'm very proud of it. I have had the priveledge and honor to have met this man at the Breezeway. He is a very decent human being. There are a few of us that choose to dress in alternative style. He should not be condemned. He looked very fine that night. If I was into women I may have been more interested. Give him a break. He didn't hurt anyone. Stop being bullies and leave us alone!!!
- james, manchester

Leave the guy alone. His career and life are ruined. I think he has some issues to deal with. There was no call for the UL to publish this. And shame on the "anonymous" source who told the UL the details that MPD and the prosecutor had enough manners and couthe to not comment on. He was anonymous because he probably wasn't supposed to say anything. This was published to satisfy the purient interests of the public, not for news value.
- Jim, HUdson

The drunk driving is one thing, the cross dressing is another. Its a sad day for the Federal Judicial System when we learn that one of our Judges are as the other contributor said "a freak show".
- Bob Ahern, Derry

The Union Leader didn't make him look like a freak show, the judge made HIMSELF (herself?) look like a freak show. He makes decisions that alter other people's lives and they have a right to know if he is a freak show. The second he walked out in public dressed as a woman, he lost all right to privacy.
- Mike, Manchester, NH

Jake, he IS a freak show.
- Gail, Bedford

Yes indeed, Jake and all you others who see nothing a tad odd here. Cross dressing federal judges are just fine. It's 2008 after all and we are quite enlightened.

Children receiving abortions and morning after pills without their parent's knowledge. Judges dressing in cocktail dresses and driving into New Hampshire to have drinks at a bar while their wives are away. Voting to support a presidential candidate who insists that your community ("the whole village") rather than you should raise your children. A state legislative majority that hasn't come across a piece of nanny legislation that it doesn't like.

Clearly we are progressing here in New Hampshire only as progressives would want.
- Bill, Mont Vernon

Wow, I guess you get what you pay for when judges are appointed not elected. What a freak. Good job Union Leader for pointing out the facts!
- GR Chase, Exeter, NH

The Judge committed a crime of driving while intoxicated.
His attire or life style is irrelevant to this case. It is not a crime for Judges to cross dress or visit a gay bar in the USA constitution.
Please Union leader move on to relevant news and do not turn into another junk news agency.
- JD Williams, Manchester NH

Wow! This guy is a freak, and he OBVIOUSLY doesn't belong in the position of a Federal judge, he obviously has serious mental health issues. This guy needs to be removed from his position.

It's not illegal as far as I know, so kudos to the officer for his fairness, but no matter, this judge's judgement is non existent. What a pitiful human being! Sicko!
- John Peareson, Stratham

Kudos to the Union Leader for mentioning the "attire" at the time of his arrest. I always wondered what judges wore under their robes. This judge, might be a little naughty.
- Richard, Windham Maine

So I'm curious...if the Manchester PD didn't think it was that important enough to fully mention that Somma was wearing women's clothing...why does the Union Leader lead with that part of the story?

Isn't it a bit more important to the safety and well being of citizens that this guy was driving drunk, caused an accident and could have seriously injured or killed an innocent bystander?

Another example of sensationalist news gathering. I don't care if the guy was dressed as Marie Antoinette...he drove drunk and was allowed a plea bargain that was basically a slight tap on the wrist. Mmmm now that sets a good example for folks to follow doesn't it?

Peace
- Joel, Nashua

He made a terrible decision to drive intoxicated, but is it really necessary to make him look like a freak show? So what if he cross-dressed. It's 2008. There are worse things that people can do.
- Jake, Bedford