Man who attacked Nevada judge in court pleads guilty but mentally ill

A man has pleaded guilty but mentally ill to attempted murder and other charges following a shocking attack on a judge in a Las Vegas courtroom. Deobra Delone Redden, 31, ended his trial after the judge, Mary Kay Holthus, testified about the terrifying event that unfolded on January 3rd.

During the proceedings, Judge Holthus described how she feared for her life as Redden leapt over her bench and landed directly on her. The incident occurred just as she was about to issue a sentence in a separate felony attempted battery case involving Redden.

Holthus expressed feeling “defenseless” during the attack, noting that court officials and attorneys who rushed to her aid ultimately saved her life. Her testimony highlighted the chaos that erupted in the courtroom as she struggled to fend off the assault.

Michael Lasso, a law clerk who witnessed the event, recounted the frightening moment when he saw the judge’s head slam against the ground as Redden grabbed her hair. Lasso testified, “I absolutely thought, ‘He’s going to kill her.’” In his effort to help, Lasso engaged Redden in a physical struggle, ultimately striking him to try to bring the attack to an end. Lasso described seeing Redden also assault a corrections officer who intervened during the melee.

In addition to the assault on Judge Holthus, an armed courtroom marshal sustained serious injuries, suffering a bleeding gash on his forehead and a dislocated shoulder while trying to restrain Redden. Despite the severity of the altercation, Judge Holthus was treated for her injuries and returned to work shortly thereafter.

Redden’s attorney, Carl Arnold, explained to jurors that his client had been off his prescribed medication for schizophrenia, which is a crucial aspect of his mental state. The nature of Redden’s plea could have significant implications for his mental health treatment while incarcerated.

Already serving time for prior felony battery convictions, Redden now faces a total of up to 86 years in prison following his guilty pleas to eight felonies. These charges include not just attempted murder, but also battery on a protected person aged 60 or older that resulted in substantial bodily harm, intimidating a public officer, and battery by a prisoner.

The court, presided over by Judge Susan Johnson, determined that Redden was competent to enter his plea. Sentencing for Redden is slated for November 7th, where the full extent of his punishment will be decided.

Following the attack, Prosecutor John Giordani noted that Redden had openly admitted his intent to kill Judge Holthus to three correctional staff members. Giordani remarked, “While he clearly has past mental issues, he made a choice that day and failed to control his homicidal impulses.” This emphasizes the complex interplay between Redden’s mental health and his criminal actions.

The distressing courtroom incident not only raised serious questions regarding courtroom safety but also highlighted ongoing issues surrounding mental health treatment for individuals in the criminal justice system. As the community awaits sentencing, the focus remains on the implications of Redden’s actions and the quest for justice for those affected by the events of that day.