Las Vegas, Nevada – A man who violently attacked a judge in a Las Vegas courtroom has been indicted on nine charges, including attempted murder. The incident, which was caught on video and went viral on social media, occurred during the sentencing of 30-year-old Deobra Redden in early January. In the video, Redden can be seen leaping over the bench and assaulting Judge Mary Kay Holthus, placing his hands around her throat and hitting her head.
The indictment against Redden also includes charges of battery on a protected person and intimidating a public officer. If convicted, he could face up to 20 years in prison. In Nevada, certain felonies against victims aged 60 or older carry a penalty of one to 20 years in prison.
Redden’s attorney, who represented him during the sentencing hearing, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. It was revealed during the hearing that Redden had pleaded guilty to an attempted battery charge in November and had previously served time in prison for attempted theft and domestic battery.
The attack occurred after Judge Holthus denied Redden’s request for probation. In a courtroom video, she can be heard saying, “I appreciate that, but I think it’s time that he gets a taste of something else because I just can’t with that history.” Soon after, Redden ran towards Holthus, causing chaos in the courtroom.
Both Judge Holthus and a courtroom marshal sustained injuries and were taken to a hospital. However, in a subsequent hearing, Holthus emphasized that Redden’s attack did not influence her decision. She sentenced him to 19 to 48 months in prison for attempted battery with substantial bodily harm.
Redden is scheduled to be arraigned on February 29. The indictment document, mentioned by the Associated Press, alleges that during the attack, Redden assaulted the judge by grabbing her, pulling her hair, placing his hands around her throat, and hitting her head. He is also accused of attacking an officer from the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department who responded to the incident.
The shocking courtroom attack has sparked conversations about security measures and the safety of judges and court personnel. The incident serves as a reminder of the risks faced by those involved in the justice system and highlights the importance of maintaining a secure environment within courtrooms.