PHILADELPHIA (PA)
The Republic

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

PHILADELPHIA — Prosecutors are challenging a defense motion to have a Philadelphia judge removed on the eve of a landmark church sex-abuse case.

Lawyers for Monsignor William Lynn call the judge biased because of a remark she made about potential jury questions.

Common Pleas Judge Teresa Sarmina suggested that child sex-abuse was “widespread” throughout the Roman Catholic Church. Lynn say that shows her bias.

In a written response, prosecutors say Sarmina compared the remark to drug dealing — saying a juror could fairly hear a drug case even if they believe drug dealing is a big problem.