A Las Vegas judge was attacked during a sentencing hearing on Wednesday and the incident was captured on video.
Deobra Redden swore at Judge Mary Kay Holthus as she handed down the sentence, then jumped over the bench and lunged at her.
Redden was scheduled to be sentenced for a charge of attempted battery with substantial bodily harm. Before the attack, a prosecutor said Redden had a history of violent crimes and asked for a prison term. Past charges include home invasion, domestic violence and battery on a protected person.
Speaking on his own behalf, Redden said he was “in a better place in my mind,” had a better support system and had a new job.
“I feel like I shouldn’t be sent to prison, but if it’s appropriate for you, then you gotta do what you gotta do,” he said.
Redden’s attorney also argued for a suspended sentence, citing previous completions of probation programs, his mental health history and his background.
“I appreciate that, but I think it’s time that he get a taste of something else,” Holthus responded. “Because I just can’t with that history.”
That’s when Redden swore at Holthus, jumped over the bench and leapt onto the judge, leading to a melee as he attacked her. A man next to Holthus and a court marshal both tried to hold Redden back and subdue him.
Several people eventually started to hit Redden to get him to stop, though much of the response took place off-camera. Holthus can be heard yelling out during the attack, as well.
Holthus was eventually able to stand after a few minutes, and officers escorted her out of the courtroom before ordering all other defendants out.
A marshal was taken to a hospital for examination, as well as Holthus. Both are expected to be okay.
Police later said a criminal investigation is currently being conducted.
New charges will be filed against Redden for Wednesday’s attack.
Via KSVN