BUTTE, Mont. — The arraignment of Michael Dylan O’Keefe took an unexpected turn on Thursday when his initial silence was abruptly replaced by a barrage of statements, causing chaos in the courtroom.
O’Keefe, 55, stands accused of intentionally breaking a window at the Emma Park Neighborhood Center on April 17. During the proceedings, District Judge Frank Joseph struggled to maintain order as O’Keefe interrupted him while responding to questions.
After asking if O’Keefe could speak, Judge Joseph noted the defendant’s vocal outburst during a moment of legal dialogue, leading to significant overlap where neither party was clearly heard. Following a pause, O’Keefe attempted to elaborate on his situation, mentioning his coping skills and medication. His comments prompted an irritated response from Judge Joseph, who emphasized the importance of listening.
“Do you have a skill to be quiet and listen for a second?” the judge asked, to which O’Keefe replied affirmatively. “OK then please do that,” Judge Joseph insisted, urging the defendant to comply.
Presently listed as homeless, O’Keefe had previously chosen not to speak during an initial court appearance, where he was barred from pleading guilty by Justice Court Judge Ben Pezdark. He now faces charges of felony criminal mischief, which was elevated to state District Court where formal pleas are required.
Dressed in orange jail attire with his hands shackled, O’Keefe appeared to be under close watch by law enforcement, including an armed bailiff who monitored his movements closely. When the judge mentioned the specifics of his charge, O’Keefe stated his intention to consult his public defender, Shelby Danna.
As proceedings continued, concerns over O’Keefe’s mental competency arose, leading the judge to enter a not guilty plea on his behalf at Danna’s request.
Investigators indicated that staff members at Action Inc. witnessed the moment a window shattered and reportedly saw O’Keefe departing the scene. Surveillance footage allegedly captured him throwing an object, suspected to be a brick, at the window, which resulted in damage exceeding $1,500.
O’Keefe remains in custody, with his bail set at $25,000 in response to a request from prosecutor Aaron Rains.
This article was automatically generated by OpenAI. The facts, figures, and circumstances may not be accurate. To request a removal, retraction, or correction, please email contact@publiclawlibrary.org.