LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – A man’s sentencing hearing took a violent turn on Wednesday when he attacked the judge in a Nevada courthouse. Deobra Redden, 30, was in court for a sentencing hearing in Las Vegas after pleading guilty to attempted violence with significant bodily damage. The incident was captured on video and has since gone viral on social media.
In the video, Redden is seen jumping over a courtroom bench onto Judge Mary Kay Holthus. The attack led to chaos in the courtroom, with three men attempting to overpower Redden. Both Judge Holthus and a court marshal were injured in the attack.
Following the incident, the Eighth Judicial District Court commended the heroic acts of court staff, law enforcement, and others who subdued the defendant. The court also emphasized its commitment to a safe and secure courthouse and courtrooms, stating that they are reviewing all protocols to protect the judiciary, the public, and employees.
Records indicate that Redden has a prior criminal history, having served time in jail for attempted theft and domestic assault. Judge Holthus joined the Clark County bench in January 2019 after working for nearly 27 years in the district attorney’s office in Clark County.
According to the rules of the Eighth Judicial District Court, visitors to the Clark County courthouse are searched for unlawful items and expected to maintain quiet in the courtroom. Incidents of violence in courthouses, while rare, have caused concern for the safety of judges and court staff.
The incident serves as a reminder of the potential dangers faced by judges and court personnel in the line of duty, and highlights the importance of courthouse security measures. Redden remains in custody, and both Judge Holthus and the court marshal are being monitored for their injuries.