Manhattan Court Attack

A man accused of attacking three officers with a knife in a Manhattan courthouse pleaded not guilty on Thursday.

Jonathan Wall, 37, was previously released on bail on June 16 after being charged with two counts of attempted murder for the stabbings, which occurred in the lobby of the Manhattan Crown Court, where he was also appearing before judges.

Wall has a history of animosity towards law enforcement. Judge Michele Rodney ordered him to be remanded, while multiple judges stood in the courtroom to express their support for the injured officers.

Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg stated, “Court officers face a tough job in ensuring safety within our courts—this includes judges, staff, lawyers, victims, witnesses, the public, and even those accused of crimes.” He emphasized that attacks on these officers would not be tolerated, highlighting the seriousness of the charges against Wall.

According to prosecutors, Wall’s assault began when he went through a security checkpoint in the courthouse.

Initially, he allegedly slashed the first officer in the face multiple times before bringing him down. When another officer intervened, Wall reportedly stabbed him five times in the face and neck area. Additionally, he is accused of stabbing a third officer in the back, piercing through the protective vest.

Court documents indicate that a responding sergeant suffered injuries during the incident. Prosecutors noted that Wall used a curved blade, which, if it had been straight-edged, could have resulted in a fatality.

Wall is scheduled to return to court on October 9th.