Originally Posted by LinvilleGorge

It does negate the purpose of making a deal. That's why judges rarely do it. It's usually reserved for relatively high profile cases that could damage the judge's reputation. The average Joe Schmoe with a DUI goes in for probation violation and makes a deal with the DA, the judge let's it slide. Chris Leben goes in and the judge lays down the law - because someone will be reporting on the outcome. Simple as that.