On January 3, 2024, a dramatic and violent incident unfolded in a Las Vegas courtroom when Deobra Redden, a 31-year-old man, leaped over the bench and attacked Judge Mary Kay Holthus of the Clark County District Court. The attack, which was captured on courtroom video, occurred as Judge Holthus was preparing to sentence Redden for a previous felony battery charge. Redden had pleaded guilty to that charge in a prior hearing.
Background on Judge Mary Kay Holthus
Judge Holthus has a distinguished career in law, serving more than 27 years with the Clark County District Attorney's Office before being elected to the bench in 2018. She earned her Bachelor of Science in economics from the State University of New York at Binghamton and her Juris Doctor from Villanova University's Charles Widger School of Law. During her tenure as a prosecutor, she specialized in cases involving sexual assault, child abuse, and domestic violence, eventually rising to the role of chief deputy district attorney2.
The Attack
The attack on Judge Holthus was sudden and intense. Redden vaulted over the bench, knocking over flags and landing on top of the judge. He repeatedly punched her and pulled her hair, slamming her head against a wall. The incident was chaotic, with court personnel and a law clerk, Michael Lasso, intervening to restrain Redden. Lasso's quick action was credited with preventing more severe injuries to Judge Holthus34.
Aftermath and Sentencing
Following the attack, Redden was initially jailed on $54,000 bail and faced multiple charges, including attempted murder and battery on a protected person. In September 2024, he pleaded guilty but mentally ill to the charges, acknowledging his struggles with paranoid schizophrenia. His attorney noted that Redden was not taking his prescribed medication at the time of the attack37.
On December 10, 2024, Redden was sentenced to a term ranging from 26 to 65 years in prison by Judge Susan Johnson of the Eighth Judicial District Court. During the sentencing, Redden expressed remorse, stating he did not intend to kill Judge Holthus, despite his violent actions16.
Mental Health Considerations
Redden's case highlights the complex interplay between mental health and criminal justice. His attorney argued that Redden's untreated schizophrenia contributed to his actions, emphasizing the need for adequate mental health support within the justice system37.
Conclusion
The attack on Judge Mary Kay Holthus underscores the risks faced by judicial officials and the importance of courtroom security. It also raises questions about how mental health issues are addressed within the criminal justice system. As Redden begins his lengthy prison sentence, his case serves as a reminder of the challenges in balancing justice with compassion for those struggling with mental illness.
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