Family Court Judge Michael "Mickey" Foellger has attracted controversy because in some cases he orders deadbeat dads to have vasectomies in lieu of jail.

He is one of just a few judges across the country who place restrictions on the rights of men to father children, an issue that raises constitutional questions. No one in Kentucky has challenged Foellger's sentencing practices, but a similar case has been challenged in the Ohio Supreme Court.

Foellger explains his policy:

Enough is enough. That is why the Campbell Family Court has offered to probate some child support offenders' jail sentences if they choose to get a vasectomy.

Having more than four illegitimate children by three or more unwed mothers is simply enough. When you have failed to pay court-ordered child support for these children, then that's quite enough. That is a violation of the law, and a sanction is required. The punishment for violating this law is a jail sentence.

Some have construed this court's vasectomy policy as a deterrent to not paying child support. It is not. The deterrent is jail.

The vasectomy policy established by the Campbell Family Court has been utilized in only the most extreme cases in order to interrupt indiscriminate procreation. The court has found the behavior of the men in these cases to be egregious and unconscionable.

The court has found that the defendants have a clear propensity to be irresponsible and reckless, and found no likelihood of change. The court has found it in the best interest of the children already born to these individuals that they need not share their father's income with any additional children.

Do you know of a position, vote or statement made by a public official that you'd like him or her to explain? Make a suggestion, and we'll ask. Send ideas to Ray Cooklis at rcooklis@enquirer.com; phone (513) 768-8525.