Chief Judge Jerry Wiese Emphasizes Urgent Need for Enhanced Security Measures Following Unprecedented Incident at Regional Justice Center
The Clark County District Court is in a state of reassessment following a startling incident at the Regional Justice Center. Officials are intensifying their scrutiny of security measures and contemplating bolstering the number of marshals at their disposal after a defendant’s disruptive actions disrupted proceedings and shocked onlookers during a courtroom hearing.
Chief Judge Jerry Wiese expressed his astonishment at the unprecedented event that unfolded, where a defendant unexpectedly vaulted over the judge’s bench—an act described as akin to a “superman” move, an occurrence Wiese stressed was a first in his extensive experience within Clark County or elsewhere in courthouses.
“We will do anything we can to make this a safe place, not only for judges but for staff and the public,” vowed Wiese, highlighting the paramount importance of security within the judicial system.
The distressing incident was captured on courtroom video, revealing the assailant, Deobra Delone Redden, leaping over the bench and physically assaulting Judge Mary Kay Holthus, causing her to fall against a wall from her seat. While Judge Holthus did not require hospitalization, Chief Judge Wiese noted her lingering soreness and stiffness following the altercation.
The defendant, Redden, now held on $54,000 bail, faced additional charges, including battery against a protected person, and refused to appear in court on Thursday. His next appearance has been rescheduled for January 9.
In the aftermath, courtroom staff and jail officers had to intervene forcefully to separate Redden from Judge Holthus. The violent encounter left one courtroom marshal hospitalized with a bleeding forehead gash and a dislocated shoulder. However, Chief Judge Wiese confirmed that the injured marshal has since been discharged.
Commending the prompt response of those who intervened, Wiese conveyed Judge Holthus’s gratitude towards well-wishers and those who acted swiftly in her defense.
The chaotic scenes, witnessed by those present in the courtroom, unfolded as Redden vehemently protested against the judge’s decision to incarcerate him, leading to a charged confrontation as court marshals moved in to detain him. The resulting chaos, marked by screams and physical altercations, underscored the urgent need for enhanced security measures.
Acknowledging the shortage of marshals, Wiese emphasized the court’s immediate plans to fortify their ranks, especially within criminal court calendars. He noted that while most courtrooms have one marshal, some have only two, emphasizing the necessity for increased personnel.
Reflecting on the incident, Wiese pondered over the challenges faced, asserting that even additional personnel might not have thwarted the assailant’s swift actions. He stressed the uniqueness of the situation and the ongoing efforts to explore all avenues to fortify security and prevent such incidents in the future.
Wiese reassured the public that extensive deliberations have been ongoing to reassess and enhance safety protocols within the court system, reiterating, “Our whole goal is to maintain trust in the public court system.” The aftermath of this unsettling event has spurred a renewed dedication to fortifying courtroom security and ensuring the safety of all involved in the pursuit of justice within Clark County.
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