Las Vegas witnessed a shocking incident on Wednesday as a defendant attacked a judge in a courtroom after his plea was denied in a felony battery case.
Clark County District Judge Mary Kay Holthus was in the process of pronouncing the sentence for Deobra Delone Redden when he suddenly leaped over a defense table and the judge's bench, landing on top of her, as per to Independent.
Judge Attacked in Las Vegas Courtroom
This violent episode occurred at the Clark County District Court during Redden's sentencing for an attempted battery charge with substantial bodily harm. Redden had already pleaded guilty to the crime in November but was subsequently arrested in December after failing to appear in court.
During the sentencing, Redden's lawyer requested probation for his client. However, Judge Holthus denied the request, stating, "I think it's time he gets a taste of something else. I can't with that history." Video footage captured by CBS affiliate KLAS captured the moment when Redden launched himself at the judge, causing a commotion in the courtroom.
Despite the chaos, nearby court officials swiftly intervened. The marshal and clerk present confronted Redden, grappling with him as he thrashed around near the judge's bench. Redden managed to injure the marshal before ultimately being restrained. The wounded marshal was taken to the hospital, where he is expected to recover. Judge Holthus suffered a head injury during the altercation but was reported to be in satisfactory condition afterward.
Clark County District Attorney Steve Wolfson released a statement confirming that Judge Holthus was not seriously injured. He expressed gratitude for the heroic actions of those who came to her aid, particularly highlighting the marshal and law clerk. Wolfson added that given Redden's extremely violent behavior, he is confident that there will be consequences for the defendant, according to The Sun.
Deobra Delone Redden Case
Redden had previously come under investigation after making threats to harm another individual. In May, a judge ruled that he should undergo a competency test and be committed to a state behavioral facility. However, in October, it was determined that Redden was competent. Following his arrest in December for missing a court appointment, he faced additional charges of battery and battery of a protected person after allegedly causing serious injuries to a victim.
Redden has a history of criminal offenses, having pleaded guilty and been convicted in three felony cases. He had previously served time in prison for domestic violence in 2021 and was found guilty of battery three years prior. In 2015, he was convicted of attempted theft. Court records indicate that Redden had appeared before Judge Holthus in the past for charges related to destruction of property.
Judge Mary Kay Holthus was elected to her position in January 2019 following an extensive tenure at the district attorney's office spanning over 27 years. Her experience includes working with the Special Victims Unit, where she advocated for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and child abuse.
The shocking attack on Judge Holthus highlights the inherent risks faced by members of the judiciary. In this instance, the quick response from court officials helped prevent further harm. The incident also serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining security and safety within the judicial system, ABC News reported.
Related Article : Court Allows Texas To Ban Emergency Abortions Despite Federal Guidanc
