Story Archive

Judicial Powers

“A judge has the power to take whatever action is necessary to maintain order in the courtroom,” said Chief Judge Thomas Wilson of the Jackson County, Mich., circuit and probate court. Circuit Judge John McBain decided that meant taking off his robe, rushing off the bench, and helping tackle the man before him. McBain had ordered Jacob Larson jailed for violating a protective order, and Larson was, in the judge’s words, “hand fighting” the deputized law clerk who was — in the absence of any real law-enforcement officers — trying to take him into custody. The judge said Larson was “totally disturbing the decorum of the court.” He told the law clerk to “tase his ass right now,” but he never did. (AC/Jackson Citizen Patriot) ...I’ve seen cops who think they’re judges, but judges who think they’re cops?