Johnson County Judge Jeff Monk isn’t just handing out sentences. He’s handing out life lessons.

“Don’t back talk, don’t sass your teachers, be polite, be respectful. Do what you’re supposed to do, sir. And quit showing up in my courtroom,” said Monk to a teenager in his District 2 Johnson County Courtroom.

As a community servant, he takes his job seriously.

“I want people to walk out of this courtroom and feel prideful. Let them realize that, ‘hey I made a mistake. I know I made a mistake. The judge was gracious enough to see it was a true mistake,’” said Monk.

He doesn’t look like your stereotypical judge.

“One of the things that really catches these teenagers off guard is they expect some bald-headed old man when they walk into the courtroom to be the judge. I’m a Harley-riding, long-haired, bearded, conservative, republican judge,” said Monk.

That’s not to mention the dozens of movies, TV shows, and commercials he’s been in. When Monk loses the robe, he spends his time working on an acting career.

“I use those opportunities in my acting, television film and theatrical, to instill in these kids look there’s better things to do than get in trouble,” said Monk.

“Whatever their calling in life is, they can do it if they realize they can do it.”