[Arkan]

Sorry for the Judge, Court stenographer, and Deputy's family for their loss.

I have a comment/opinion on what transpired. From what they're telling us, the suspect was brought before the judge charged with rape. Thats a serious crime which carries a hefty sentence. The suspect took advantage of a situation that, in my opinion, was helped caused by societies way of thinking. We all know the phrase: "Innocent before proven guilty in a court of law". It's just that, that may have contributed to what transpired this morning. This "innocent" man was brought before the court charged with a "violent" crime of rape. He undoubtly was not handcuffed while in the courthouse since the image of him being handcuffed may sway the court to believe he's guilty. He overpowered the only armed person in the room (Deputy Sheriff} and took the gun away, shooting the deputy in the process. Had the suspect been restraint in the 1st place (perhaps less visible leg irons), perhaps this killing never happens. The suspect took advantage of a "weak link" in custody and acted on it. I'm sure procedure in handling future suspects in that county will change........and for good reason i might add.

I think it's time we do away with "image" and worry about safety first. If EVERYONE was brought before the judge with restraints (even a DWI), then perhaps the stereo-typing won't be a factor when it comes time to determine guilt. This is only my opinion, and until someone else comes up with a better solution, i'm sticking to mine. (...and don't even suggest the Deputy be unarmed unless the court house is set up inside a prison where the suspect has no way of escaping once he decides to make a run for it.)

....on another thought, perhaps we have an unarmed court officer handling the suspect while an armed officer stands at the door? At least he'll have time to draw down on the suspect if he charges the door. I dunno.......thoughts??