Judge in Las Vegas attacked by defendant during sentencing

By Seda Sevencan

ISTANBUL (AA) – A judge in the western US state of Nevada was attacked and injured during court proceedings in Las Vegas on Wednesday when a defendant jumped over the bench, local media said.

The attack injured Eighth Judicial District Court Judge May Kay Holthus, Nevada State News reported.

“Deobra Redden was present for a sentencing hearing this morning, with regard to the charge of attempted battery with substantial bodily harm. During the hearing, Mr. Redden attacked Judge Mary Kay Holthus,” the daily reported, quoting a public information officer for the court.

Judge Holthus received some injuries and her condition is being monitored, while a courtroom marshal was also injured during the attack and was taken to the hospital for treatment.

“Sending our sincerest well wishes to District Court Judge Mary Kay Holthus and the marshal injured in her courtroom today. Your dedication to justice and the court are truly commendable. We wish you both a swift recovery,” Attorney General Aaron D. Ford said.

The incident was recorded on courtroom video, which Nevada Judges quickly released. Judge Holthus is seen in the video being injured after falling back from her seat against a wall.

According to the Las Vegas Review-Journal, the 30-year-old defendant, Deobra Redde, with an arrest history since 2011, has been convicted of three felonies, including attempted theft in 2015, battery with substantial bodily harm in 2018, battery constituting domestic violence in 2021, and two misdemeanors, including battery in 2016, and destruction of property in 2023.​​​​​​​