LAS VEGAS – The viral video of a man attacking a Clark County judge, Deobra Redden assaulting Judge Mary Kay Holthus, has shocked the nation. But for those who’ve spent years within the hallowed halls of justice, the incident serves as a chilling reminder of the ever-present danger judges face.

While the public may recoil in disbelief, retired judge William “Bill” Kephart, who shared Holthus’ hallway for years, says such outbursts, “sadly, happen.” He attributes this not just to individual outbursts, but to the high stakes that permeate courtrooms. Every decision carries weight, whether sentencing a criminal or presiding over a multi-million dollar lawsuit.

While Kephart believes Holthus wouldn’t let threats sway her decisions, he worries some judges might be influenced by the potential consequences of their rulings. This pressure, he suggests, adds another layer of danger to the already volatile atmosphere of a courtroom.

The Redden incident, however, isn’t the norm. Another retired judge, speaking on condition of anonymity, revealed that in her experience, defendants are more likely to lash out at their own attorney than the judge. This suggests that while judges aren’t immune to attacks, they may not be the primary target of a defendant’s anger.

Regardless of the specific target, the attack on Holthus highlights the need for robust security measures within courthouses. While judges like Kephart point to the surprising rarity of such incidents given the volume of cases, their very occurrence demands action. Increased security, mental health evaluations for potentially volatile defendants, and ongoing support for judges themselves are just some potential avenues to explore.

The viral video isn’t just a shocking spectacle; it’s a call to action. It’s a reminder that the scales of justice must be held steady, protected not just from the biases of personal opinion, but also from the very real threat of physical violence. Ensuring the safety of those who uphold the law is as vital as upholding the law itself.

This incident demands reflection, discussion, and concrete action to ensure that every courtroom across the nation remains a place where justice can be served, not a stage for violence.

Credits: 8 News Now