A California judge appointed by Governor Gavin Newsom has drawn sharp criticism after sentencing 41-year-old Stephen Vincent Chavez to only one year in county jail and three years of probation.

Chavez admitted to committing incest with his 18-year-old biological daughter, Makayla Settles. Tragically, Makayla took her own life five months later.

Judge Dusty Kawai opted for the minimum sentence, citing Chavez’s lack of prior criminal record, despite prosecutors pushing for the maximum three years in state prison.

The DA’s office noted that current state laws limited charges to incest, as they were unable to secure a rape conviction in the case.

The lenient sentence has sparked outrage and renewed debate over sentencing guidelines in cases involving familial sexual abuse.

The family and community continue to grieve the loss of Makayla Settles.