Judge & Public Defender Burst Into Courtroom Fistfight

In a video taken in June of 2014 at Moore Justice Center Florida, a judge and a public defender have a difference of opinion in the court room. The public defender repeatedly states that he “is not waiving” his client’s right to a trial. Moments later, another case is called and the public defender continues to stand up for his client’s civil rights. The judge responds by saying, “If I had a rock, I’d throw it at you right now. You’re really pissing me off, just sit down”.

Unmoved, the public defender exercises his rights to remain in the court room and continues to disobey the judge’s unlawful orders. Suddenly, the judge exclaims, “If you want to fight, lets just go out back and I’ll just kick your ass”. The disagreement ultimately leads to a “bar style” fist fight just outside of the court room door.

In the background, audible screams and presumably things breaking can be heard as the judge can be heard saying, “I’m not kidding! You wanna f*** with me? Do ya?!” Shortly after, the judge returns to his bench, gasping for air, and the entire court room gives him a round of applause. It is safe to say, this type of behavior is not acceptable in a court of law. According to the ABA Journal, who reported on the incident, “Chief Judge John M. Harris said the Judge was ordered a temporary leave of absence and has agreed to take anger management classes and get unspecified “treatment.”

The Moore Justice Department can be reached for comment at the information provided below.

Moore Justice Department (Brevard County) Florida
Address: 2825 Judge Fran Jamieson Way, Viera FL 32940
Phone: (321) 637 -2000