A recent virtual court hearing in Michigan took a dramatic turn when a prosecutor’s sharp instincts helped safeguard an abuse survivor’s safety. During the Zoom hearing, the prosecutor intervened after suspecting that the defendant was in close proximity to his accuser, raising serious concerns for her well-being. This incident highlights the potential dangers that can arise in virtual court settings, especially as they have become more common over the past year.
The defendant, Alex Thompson, faces charges of assault with intent to cause bodily harm following an altercation that took place on February 9 in Sturgis. Present at the hearing were Thompson, the alleged victim, Sarah Johnson, Judge Michael Reynolds, the prosecuting attorney’s assistant, and the defense team. Thompson’s felony charge could lead to up to 10 years in prison for a first offense, or 15 years if considered a habitual offender. Johnson reported that the assault originated from a brief argument while they were dating.
A few minutes into the hearing, the prosecutor’s assistant, Lisa Green, interrupted the proceedings. She expressed her concern that Johnson and Thompson were in the same location during the livestream, based on Johnson’s demeanor and responses. “Your Honor, I believe the defendant is currently in the same apartment as the witness, and I’m really worried about her safety,” Green stated. The judge promptly asked Johnson where she was, to which she replied, “I’m at my house,” providing her address upon request.
Meanwhile, a police officer involved in the hearing began communicating with another officer via phone, despite his microphone being muted. This officer was dispatched to Johnson’s location. Thompson denied being at Johnson’s residence but also refused to take a photo of the house number, claiming his phone battery was low.
As the tension escalated, Green informed the court that officers were knocking on the door of Johnson’s apartment. “Ms. Johnson, could you please answer the door?” the judge instructed. “Take your phone with you so we can ensure you’re safe,” Green added. Johnson walked to the door to answer it, but her connection dropped, and Thompson also disappeared from the call. After a few tense moments of silence, the livestream resumed, revealing officers handcuffing Thompson.
“Your Honor, both Sarah and I don’t want the no-contact order,” Thompson said, as he was being apprehended. “I’m sorry I lied. I knew the police were outside.” The judge quickly adjourned the hearing, canceled Thompson’s bond, and indicated that the prosecutor could add obstruction of justice to the existing charges. “This is a situation we didn’t encounter in live court. Kudos to the Sturgis Police Department for their prompt response,” Judge Reynolds remarked. “This is the first time I’ve seen someone potentially intimidating a witness during a hearing.”
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In summary, a quick-thinking prosecutor played a pivotal role in ensuring the safety of an abuse survivor during a virtual court hearing, demonstrating the potential challenges and risks that can arise in remote legal proceedings.