LAS VEGAS, Nevada – During a sentencing hearing in a Las Vegas courtroom, a man named Deobra Redden, 30, launched a violent attack on Judge Mary Kay Holthus after being denied probation. Redden, who pleaded guilty to attempted violence with significant bodily damage, leaped over the courtroom bench and attacked the judge, resulting in a chaotic and violent scene.
Video footage of the incident quickly went viral on social media, showing Redden jumping over the bench and cursing as he landed on Judge Holthus. The judge was injured in the attack, and a court marshal who intervened was also injured. However, both were reported to be in stable condition at a local hospital.
Following the incident, the Eighth Judicial District Court released a statement commending the heroic acts of their staff, law enforcement, and others who subdued the defendant. The court also reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring a safe and secure courthouse and courtroom, stating that they are reviewing all protocols to protect the judiciary, the public, and their employees.
Redden’s criminal background, which included prior jail time for attempted theft and domestic assault, played a role in Judge Holthus’s decision to deny probation. The attack has raised concerns about courthouse security, with visitors being searched for unlawful items before entering the building.
This incident is a reminder of the potential dangers faced by court personnel and the need for continued vigilance in ensuring the safety of everyone in the courthouse. In light of this event, the community and authorities must work together to address any security gaps and protect those who serve the justice system.