Convicted felon attacks judge during sentencing in court
A 30-year-old defendant, Deobra Delone Redden, has launched a violent attack on District Judge Mary Kay Holthus during a sentencing hearing at the Clark County District Court in Las Vegas.
Redden, facing charges in a felony battery case, leaped over the defense table and the judge’s bench, initiating a violent brawl on January 3, 2024.
Judge Holthus sustained injuries during the attack, though not requiring hospitalisation.
A courtroom marshal who intervened was less fortunate, suffering injuries that led to hospitalisation with a bleeding gash on his forehead and a dislocated shoulder.
Redden, who was not in custody upon arriving at court, had sought leniency from the judge before the sudden assault.
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As the judge expressed her intention to impose imprisonment, Redden charged forward, resulting in his immediate arrest and new felony charges, including battery on a protected person.
The courtroom video captured the chaotic and violent scene as court and jail officers, along with courtroom staff, intervened to restore order.
Judge Holthus, a seasoned prosecutor with over 27 years of experience, was elected to the state court bench in 2018 and re-elected in 2022. In the aftermath of the incident, court officials announced a review of all protocols to ensure the safety of the judiciary, the public, and court employees.
