The State - News from March 22, 1989

Tulare County Superior Court Judge Robert Van Auken’s revelation that he is undergoing treatment for alcoholism has been praised by friends but criticized by officials of a treatment center who fear the effect on other patients. Van Auken revealed last week that he has been off the bench for the past month because he has been undergoing treatment at Parkside Recovery Center in Exeter. That announcement “absolutely appalled” Talli McKay, the center’s program director, because people involved in such treatment interact closely and need confidentiality. “It’s so important to have this protected,” McKay said. “This can only create fears for others.” Van Auken’s friends, however, praised him for recognizing his drinking problem and voluntarily admitting himself to the center.