In a shocking incident captured on video, Clark County District Court Judge Mary Kay Holthus endured a vicious attack by three-time felon Deobra Redden during a sentencing hearing for aggravated battery with substantial bodily harm.
The assault unfolded on Wednesday, January 3, 2024, as Redden, despite having pleaded guilty and seeking leniency, was denied probation by Judge Holthus. The judge asserted that it was time for Redden to face the consequences of his actions.
In response, Redden erupted in rage, spewing obscenities before leaping over the judge’s bench to launch a brutal assault. Security officers, court personnel, and even Judge Holthus’s law clerk and court bailiff swiftly intervened, preventing further harm.
The disturbing footage, initially reported by KTNV, captured the moment Redden repeatedly punched Judge Holthus, triggering alarms that alerted others to the ongoing attack.
Though Judge Holthus escaped with minimal harm, a district court marshal involved in restraining Redden was hospitalized as a result of the incident.
Redden’s violent history included prior encounters with Judge Holthus, facing charges of malicious destruction of property in her courtroom. He had served a one-year prison sentence for a separate domestic battery charge in 2021.
The recent incident, for which he was being sentenced, involved Redden making threats to cause substantial bodily harm to an individual’s kneecaps. In May, Redden underwent a competency determination and was committed to a state behavioral facility. Despite prior questions about his competency, another judge later deemed him competent in October.
Redden pleaded guilty in November, but in December, Judge Holthus issued a bench warrant for his arrest after he missed a court appearance.
Clark County District Attorney Steve Wolfson expressed gratitude that Judge Holthus escaped severe injuries, thanking those who intervened. He emphasized the violent nature of Redden’s behavior and assured that consequences would follow.
The video of the attack has gone viral, highlighting the risks faced by judges and court personnel dealing with individuals with a history of violence. The incident underscores concerns about courtroom safety, prompting discussions about measures to protect judges and legal professionals.
As legal proceedings continue, the assault on Judge Holthus serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable and dangerous situations within courtrooms, emphasizing the paramount importance of maintaining security to ensure the safety of all involved in the justice system.
