ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — A hearing in a New Mexico courtroom devolved into chaos when three people rushed the defendant in a homicide case, setting off a brawl with flying fists and kicks.
Courtroom video cameras recorded the Jan. 31 melee, which subsided as a law enforcement officer drew a stun gun and protected the defendant from further attack.
Felony charges were filed against two men: battery and assault on a public official. They apparently rushed the defendant in a fit of rage over the killing of a relative.
A woman was also arrested on the same charges, Albuquerque TV station . The courtroom video showed her hitting the defendant and an officer with a chair.
The presence of corrections officers and other security details in courtrooms does not always keep the peace. Last year a defendant in a felony battery case in Nevada and grabbed her hair, sparking a bloody brawl with court officials.
Katina Watson, court executive officer at New Mexico's Second Judicial District, that “these are the types of things that we see regularly.â€
She praised an officer for reacting to ensure safety, without mention of potential security enhancements. The Associated Press sent a request to the court Thursday for comment on the fight and security precautions.
