Deobra Redden, the man who attacked a Las Vegas judge in a shocking courtroom incident, has been sentenced to 26 to 65 years in prison.
At a Glance
- Deobra Redden, 31, attacked Judge Mary Kay Holthus in a Las Vegas courtroom in January.
- Redden pleaded guilty but mentally ill to attempted murder and other charges.
- The attack was captured on video, showing Redden vaulting over the judge’s bench.
- Judge Holthus suffered injuries but returned to work the next day.
- Redden will be eligible for parole sometime after 2050.
Shocking Courtroom Attack
In a disturbing incident that shook the Las Vegas judicial system, Deobra Redden, 31, launched a violent attack on County District Court Judge Mary Kay Holthus during a sentencing hearing in January. The assault occurred as Judge Holthus was about to deliver Redden’s sentence in a separate case. Courtroom video captured the moment Redden vaulted over the judge’s 4-foot-high bench, tackling her to the ground and grabbing her hair.
The attack was swift and brutal, with Redden shouting profanities as he assaulted the judge. The American flag in the courtroom toppled onto them during the struggle, adding to the chaos of the scene. Judge Holthus later testified that she feared for her life during the attack, although she was not hospitalized despite suffering some injuries.
Sentencing and Mental Health Concerns
Following the attack, Redden pleaded guilty but mentally ill to attempted murder and other charges. His defense lawyer stated that Redden was not taking his prescribed medication for schizophrenia at the time of the incident, raising questions about mental health treatment in the criminal justice system.
“I’m not making excuses for my actions, but I’m saying I’m not a bad person and I know that I did not intend to kill Mary Kay Holthus,” Redden said.
Redden expressed remorse during his sentencing, claiming he did not intend to kill the judge and acknowledging his actions. However, prosecutors presented a statement from Judge Holthus suggesting that Redden had intended to kill her, highlighting the severity of the attack and its impact on the judiciary.
Sentence Delivered
The court ultimately sentenced Redden to 26 to 65 years in a Nevada prison for his violent assault on Judge Holthus. This lengthy sentence reflects the gravity of attacking a member of the judiciary and the need to protect court officials. Redden will not be eligible for parole until sometime after 2050.
Sources
- Man who jumped a desk to attack judge in Las Vegas court sentenced to 26 years in prison
- ‘I’m Not Evil’: US Man Sentenced For Leaping Over Desk To Attack Las Vegas Judge | Video
- ‘Human dart’ sentenced to prison for viral leaping attack at Nevada judge