Man Receives Prison Sentence After Attack on Judge

Deobra Redden has been sentenced to a lengthy prison term after his dramatic courtroom attack on Judge Mary Kay Holthus captured worldwide attention.

At a Glance

Deobra Redden attacked Judge Holthus in a courtroom back in January, leaping over the bench.
The incident was caught on video and went viral.
Redden has been sentenced to 26-65 years in prison.
He pleaded guilty but cited severe mental illness.

A Dramatic Courtroom Incident

Deobra Redden, 31, lunged over a judge’s bench during a sentencing hearing, initiating one of the most astonishing courtroom attacks ever witnessed. The incident involved Judge Mary Kay Holthus and took place on January 3, when Redden attempted to attack her while court staff quickly intervened. The shocking moment was captured on video, available widely online, showcasing Redden vaulting with force and grabbing the judge by her hair.

Amid the chaos, court staff whisked Redden away, managing to restrain him after a significant struggle. Judge Holthus sustained a head injury as she was slammed against a wall, requiring hospitalization. Additionally, two other court officials suffered injuries, with Holthus’ marshal, Shane Brandon, receiving 25 stitches for an injury to his face.

Redden’s Sentencing and Reflection

On December 10, Deobra Redden faced Judge Susan Johnson in court, where he pleaded guilty but mentally ill to charges, including attempted murder. He was sentenced to serve between 26 and 65 years in prison, eligible for parole after 2050. Redden expressed remorse, stating, “I’m not making excuses for my actions, but I’m saying I’m not a bad person,” suggesting that mental illness played a role in his actions.

“While there is no question you’ve got some mental illness issue, there was no doubt by doctors that you know the difference between right and wrong,” Johnson said.

His attorney argued that Redden, diagnosed with schizophrenia, was off his medication at the time of the attack. Despite this, Judge Johnson remarked that Redden was aware of right from wrong, emphasizing the gravity of the violence and its impact on the judicial system.

A Case with Unprecedented Circumstances

The courtroom incident highlights significant concerns about safety and mental health in judicial settings. Though Redden attempts to reconcile his actions with his mental health struggles, his sentence reflects the severity and consequences of his actions. The physical and emotional impacts felt by Judge Holthus and her court staff underline the broader implications of this case, serving as a stark reminder of the challenges and dangers those in the judiciary may face.