MANHATTAN, N.Y. — A violent confrontation at Manhattan Criminal Court on Monday left several court officers injured and led to the arrest of a 37-year-old suspect, Jonathan Wohl, who faces serious charges, including assault and attempted murder. Wohl appeared in court on Tuesday as law enforcement detailed the chilling nature of his attack.
Prosecutors assert that Wohl had no legitimate reason to be at the courthouse and carried out what they describe as a premeditated assault. Courtroom security personnel filled the courtroom on Tuesday, facing Wohl, who was handcuffed and accused of charging at officers with a knife. Assistant District Attorney Taylor Holland said the injuries sustained by the officers could have been far worse had they not been wearing protective vests, noting that the knife was curved, which may have mitigated the severity of the wounds.
Authorities reported that Wohl entered the courthouse calmly and approached the metal detectors. When an officer turned away, he allegedly pulled a knife from his bag and attacked, striking the first officer at least twice in the face. He then reportedly lunged at another officer, inflicting cuts to the face and neck. A total of five officers were harmed during the incident as other personnel rushed to assist their colleagues.
Investigators uncovered that Wohl had entered the courthouse with handwritten pages containing phrases like “Give me liberty or give me death,” alongside comments about the court system and law enforcement. Additionally, prosecutors highlighted his prior history of altercations with court officers, suggesting that this incident was a targeted attack on those serving within the judicial system.
District Attorney Alvin Bragg made it clear that such acts of violence would not be tolerated, emphasizing the dangers faced by court personnel as they strive to maintain safety within the courthouse. “We will not tolerate that in Manhattan,” he stated, reaffirming a commitment to protecting those working in the justice system.
In light of Wohl’s case, his defense attorney has requested medical care and protective custody for the defendant, both of which have been approved. He remains in custody, with a court appearance scheduled for Friday.
Stephen Mikos, president of the New York State Court Officers Association, expressed grave concern over the incident, emphasizing the daily challenges that court officers face in ensuring the security of judges, staff, and the public. “This illustrates and highlights what court officers deal with on a daily basis,” Mikos said. “We continue to pray for the full recovery of our brother officers. They’re all released and home getting better.”
As officials investigate further, the incident raises critical questions about security protocols and the risks inherent in upholding the law within the judicial system.