CLARK COUNTY, NV – A courtroom in Clark County, Nevada, turned into a scene of chaos on Wednesday afternoon when a defendant, denied bond, vaulted over the bench and assailed the presiding judge. The shocking incident, captured on video, resulted in injuries to both the judge and a marshal.
The Clark County District Court’s public information officer disclosed that Judge Mary Kay Holthus was in the midst of sentencing Deobra Redden when the unexpected attack took place. Redden was originally on trial for attempted battery with substantial bodily harm.
The video recording of the incident shows Redden’s lawyer pleading for probation for his client. Judge Holthus, however, responded, “I think it’s time he got a taste of something else.” Immediately following this, Redden is seen catapulting over the bench and descending on the judge.
Despite being injured, Judge Holthus did not seek hospital treatment. Conversely, the marshal, who was also a victim of the attack and can be seen retaliating in the video, was admitted to a hospital and is now in stable condition.
The court, in a statement, lauded the courage of its staff, law enforcement, and others who helped subdue Redden. It also reiterated its commitment to maintaining a secure environment within the courthouse and courtrooms. In light of the incident, the court is reviewing all security protocols and will implement necessary measures to safeguard the judiciary, the public, and its employees.
Redden, now facing additional charges, has been slapped with single counts of battery on a protected person resulting in substantial harm and battery, and two counts of battery on a protected person. Redden is expected to return to court on Thursday.