Judge Demoted After Handcuffing Sleeping Teen During Court Visit

In a recent incident that has sparked controversy, a Detroit judge has faced repercussions for his actions towards a teenage visitor to his courtroom. Judge Kenneth King has been reassigned to traffic court duties following an event where he ordered a 15-year-old girl to be handcuffed for falling asleep during a school trip to the courthouse.

The incident, which occurred in August 2024, involved Eva Goodman, who was visiting the 36th District Court as part of an educational experience. The 36th District Court, known as the busiest court in Michigan, handles over 500,000 cases annually. During the visit, Eva fell asleep, prompting Judge King to order her into jail attire and handcuffs, citing her "bad attitude."

The judge's actions were captured on the court's live-stream, a practice that has become increasingly common in recent years to promote transparency in legal proceedings. The incident raised concerns about judicial conduct and the treatment of minors in court settings.

As a consequence of his actions, Judge King has been temporarily removed from his duties presiding over major felony cases. He has been reassigned to the traffic division, where he will handle cases such as speeding tickets. This reassignment effectively serves as a demotion within the court system.

In addition to the reassignment, Judge King has been mandated to undergo social-emotional training. This type of training focuses on developing self-awareness, self-control, and interpersonal skills, which are crucial for maintaining appropriate judicial temperament. The American Bar Association provides guidelines for judicial conduct, emphasizing the importance of patience, open-mindedness, and courtesy in the courtroom.

Chief Judge William McConico of the 36th District Court issued a statement regarding Judge King's new role, expressing hope for his success in this transition. This disciplinary action highlights the significance of maintaining public trust in the judiciary, which is essential for the effective functioning of the legal system.

The incident has also led to legal action. Latoreya Till, Eva's mother, has filed a lawsuit seeking over $75,000 in damages for "inflicting fear and severe emotional distress" on her daughter. It's worth noting that emotional distress lawsuits often require proof of severe or extreme emotional suffering.

Todd Perkins, the attorney representing Judge King, stated that his client is willing to work in any capacity within the court system, emphasizing King's commitment to teamwork. This response suggests an acknowledgment of the need for accountability and a willingness to adapt to new responsibilities.

This case brings attention to several important issues within the US legal system. It underscores the need for judges to maintain appropriate conduct, especially when dealing with minors. The US Constitution's Eighth Amendment prohibits cruel and unusual punishment, a principle that extends to all interactions within the justice system.

Moreover, this incident sheds light on the challenges faced by homeless individuals. Till mentioned that her daughter was tired due to their lack of a permanent address, highlighting the broader social issues that intersect with the legal system. Homelessness affects approximately 580,000 people in the US on any given night, impacting various aspects of their lives, including interactions with public institutions.

As the legal community and public reflect on this incident, it serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for empathy, understanding, and appropriate conduct within the justice system. The resolution of this case may contribute to discussions about judicial accountability and the implementation of more restorative justice practices in courts across the nation.

"We appreciate his efforts in preparing for this role, and wish him success as he transitions into this new responsibility."