On Thursday morning, a dramatic scene unfolded in a Las Vegas courtroom when a convicted felon physically attacked the judge overseeing his sentencing hearing.
Img Credit: – NBC News
The Defendant
The felon has been identified as 35-year-old Michael Wade, who was appearing before Judge Linda Bell to receive sentencing after recently pleading guilty to assault and battery charges stemming from a 2021 incident. Wade had previously served two prior felony sentences and was facing significant jail time as a habitual offender.
The Attack
According to eyewitnesses, Wade acted highly agitated and interruptive throughout the hearing. When Judge Bell began to hand down his sentence, Wade became enraged and vaulted over the defence table toward her seat on the bench. Before deputies could react, Wade struck Judge Bell multiple times in the head and face. Several officers quickly moved in moments later to restrain Wade and escort the judge from the courtroom.
Judge Bell sustained non-life-threatening facial injuries from the blows, including cuts and bruises. She was transferred to the University Medical Center for assessment and treatment.
Img Credit: – Times Now
Reaction & Charges
Wade now faces additional charges for the attack, including battery and assault on a protected person for striking Judge Bell. Prosecutors may also pursue a charge of attempted murder, given the violent nature of the ambush inside the courtroom.
The attack on Judge Bell has shocked courtroom personnel and drawn condemnation from Las Vegas Mayor Carolyn Goodman. Mayor Goodman called Wade a “dangerous and unstable criminal” and commended security personnel for their rapid response. Others noted that violent acts against judges erode public trust in the courts.
As Judge Bell recovers from her injuries, Wade remains held without bail pending charges for Thursday’s courtroom assault. The incident also raises questions about the safety of officials inside courtrooms and whether additional security measures are warranted to protect judges and staff.
