In a bizarre courtroom incident, a restrained inmate managed to charge at a judge before being subdued.
According to the Martin County Sheriff’s Office, Evan Paul McCulloch, 46, had already posed a “threat to the judge.” Despite that, he dangerously approached the bench during his hearing on Wednesday.
As seen in the shocking footage, McCulloch arrived at court secured at the wrists, ankles, and waist. He stood at the podium for a brief moment before trying to spit at Judge William L. Robbie.
In the video, McCulloch then lunges towards the bench in an unexpected move.
Six deputies swiftly intervened, pinning him to the ground and restraining him, as shown in the video.
Interestingly, two other inmates in jumpsuits watched from the gallery, seemingly unfazed by the commotion as the officers tackled McCulloch.
During the chaos, he even managed to spit as he was forcibly dealt with, as reported by a local outlet.
Judge Robbie appeared largely unaffected by the incident, continuing with his cases after McCulloch was removed from the courtroom.
McCulloch has had a tumultuous stay in the Martin County Jail since 2023. Although he’s undergone various evaluations, his mental health issues have made him difficult to manage. He had been cleared for transfer to a state hospital but remained in custody pending further assessment.
Reportedly, while in jail, McCulloch had several altercations with deputies, creating ongoing problems.
The court proceedings regarding McCulloch were put on hold following this unusual outburst. He will likely face more felony charges and possible prison time.
