A shocking incident unfolded in a Las Vegas courtroom as a judge faced a violent attack while in the process of sentencing a defendant on Wednesday morning.
Clark County District Judge Mary Kay Holthus was presiding over the sentencing of defendant Deobra Redden, 30, for attempted battery with bodily harm when the unexpected assault occurred around 11 a.m., as reported by KLAS-TV in Las Vegas.
In a video captured in the courtroom, Redden is seen abruptly leaping over the bench, lunging at Judge Holthus. Despite her attempt to seek cover, Redden landed on top of her, causing her to fall. Quick to respond, individuals in the courtroom rushed forward, managing to restrain Redden as two men tackled him away from the judge.
The incident took place just moments after Judge Holthus denied probation for Redden. Refusing the request made by his lawyer for probation, the judge asserted, “I appreciate that, but I think it’s time he get a taste of something else,” citing Redden’s criminal history.
You can see what happened in the video below.
Redden, with prior interactions in Holthus’s court, previously served a year in prison in 2021 for domestic battery and was released on parole in 2022. He also had a previous sentence in 2015, serving a minimum of 19 months for attempted theft, according to The New York Times.
Many were shocked by the video and certainly agreed the attack would not help Redden's case.
Both Judge Holthus, 62, and a court marshal were injured during the attack. The condition of Holthus was being closely monitored, while the injured marshal was reported to be in stable condition by late Wednesday.
In a statement issued by the 8th Judicial District Court, praise was extended to those involved in subduing the attacker. The court reaffirmed its commitment to courthouse safety and vowed to review protocols to ensure the safety of the judiciary, staff, and the public.
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