Rockland County Court Judge Victor Alfieri returned to the bench in New City today for some  sentencings.  For weeks, Alfieri has been assigned – essentially full-time – by judicial leaders to fill a spot in Orange County, even though he’s been elected to serve in Rockland.  Appointed Court of Claims Judge Catherine Bartlett has been given his spot in Rockland.

Alfieri  took the bench at 9:30 a.m. today – waiting for attorneys and jail inmates to appear.

The judge also fielded  a personal outside call to the courtroom, apparently – based on his  words in hanging up –  from his mother. Chuckles filled the courtroom as the judge flashed some white teeth with a big smile.

One convicted burglar didn’t bring a smile to Alfieri’s face.

James Nelson, 40, of Spring Valley,  has a record of burglaries. He appeared  in court with a cane in his right hand, shackled at the waist and wearing the jail’s traditional orange jumpsuit.

He underwent two surgeries while in jail on his ankle and leg.

Alfieri sentenced him to 3 1/2 to 7 years in state prison for burglary.

Defense attorney Beth Finkelstein, a former prosecutor, advocated for Nelson, saying he was a licensed electrician and had used his time in prison previously to get training and to improve himself.

She wanted Alfieri to recommend he get drug  treatment during his upcoming prison term.  She said cocaine – his drug of choice – has ruined his life, saying he’s been addicted to a variety of drugs since his teen years.

Nelson thanked the judge for a second chance.

Alfieri didn’t seem to accept his thanks.

“You are not deserving of another chance,”  Aflieri responded. ” You are a thief who breaks into other people’s businesses and homes. That’s your contribution to society.”

Alfieri then discussed Nelson’s bad leg, saying maybe that will slow him down for the police if he ever tries another burglary or even discourage him from burglarizing.