(CNN) — A Nevada judge was attacked in the courtroom shortly after denying a defendant’s bail request, video from Clark County District Court shows.
Defendant Deobra Redden was in a Las Vegas courtroom Wednesday to hear her sentencing on a charge of attempted assault causing serious bodily injury, Clark County Courts said in a statement to CNN.
During the hearing, Redden and his attorney asked Judge Mary Kay Holthus for probation, arguing that the 30-year-old is trying to get his life back on track with a new job and intends to resume his studies.
Redden said he is working on his mental health issues and “trying to learn from my mistakes.”
Holthus then read aloud to the court the defendant’s criminal record, which included “three felonies…misdemeanors, multiple DVs (domestic violence)…thefts, attempted home invasion.”
“You have a lot of experience, sir,” the judge told Redden.
Redden’s attorney told the judge he believes his client could successfully serve probation.
“I appreciate it,” the judge responded, “but I think it’s time for me to try something else because…I just can’t handle that background.”
Seconds later, Redden yelled, “I’ll do it, that bitch!” and he ran towards the judge, leaping over the bench and attacking her. Redden slammed Holthus to the ground and both disappeared from the view of the camera behind the booth, the video shows.
As other members of the room attempted to hold him back, Redden yelled, “Fuck both of you!” and threw several punches.
The judge remained on the ground for several minutes before getting up, apparently indicating that he had hit his head.
“Judge Holthus sustained some injuries and his condition is being monitored,” the court note read.
An officer was also injured and taken to a local hospital and is in a stable condition, the court heard.
“We commend the heroic acts of your staff, law enforcement and all others who subdued the defendant,” the court said. “We are reviewing all of our protocols and will do everything necessary to protect the judiciary, the public and our employees.”
CNN reached out to Redden’s attorney for a statement about the attack in court but did not immediately hear back.
Redden is now charged with three counts of assault on a protected person and battery, according to court documents. He was due to appear in court Thursday but refused to be transported to his appointment, CNN affiliate KTNV reported. His next court hearing is scheduled for Tuesday.
CNN’s Jessica Flynn contributed to this report.
2024-01-04 22:45:00
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