Las Vegas, NV — Chaos ensued in a Clark County courtroom as convicted offender Deobra Delone Redden launched a violent assault on District Court Judge Mary Kay Holthus during a sentencing hearing. The attack unfolded on Wednesday after the judge refused to grant Redden bail.
Caught on video and uploaded by Reuters on Thursday, the disturbing moment showcased Redden’s sudden leap onto the judge’s bench, resulting in a tumultuous confrontation. Witnesses disclosed that a courtroom marshal, attempting to remove Redden, suffered injuries, including a dislocated shoulder and a severe cut to his forehead, requiring hospitalization.
In response to the incident, the Clark County District Court issued a statement commending the heroic actions of court staff and law enforcement who subdued Redden. The court emphasized its dedication to ensuring a safe and secure environment and announced a comprehensive review of protocols to safeguard the judiciary, the public, and employees.
Holthus, who sustained injuries during the assault, is currently under observation for her condition. The Nevada attorney general’s office expressed well wishes for the injured judge and court marshal, hoping for a swift recovery.
Following the attack, Redden faced additional charges, including violence on a protected person, encompassing the judge and court staff. Despite undergoing a mental evaluation and being deemed fit to stand trial, Redden’s violent outburst raises concerns about courtroom security.
Redden’s initial sentencing related to aggravated battery with substantial bodily harm. In November, he pleaded guilty to a lesser charge of attempted battery resulting in significant physical harm. State records indicate Redden’s history of serving time in Nevada prisons for a prior conviction related to domestic battery.
Despite the judge’s determination to ensure Redden’s imprisonment and the court marshal’s intervention, the assailant aggressively resisted restraint. This alarming incident follows Redden’s previous appearance before Judge Holthus on allegations of property destruction, as detailed in court documents reported by The US Sun.