During a recent field trip to learn about the legal system, a Detroit judge’s actions led to a 16-year-old student being placed in handcuffs and a jail uniform. The field trip, organized by the nonprofit The Greening of Detroit, aimed to provide students with a real-world experience of the courtroom.
However, the day took a troubling turn when Judge Kenneth King noticed the teenager sleeping during proceedings and reacted by having her wear a jail uniform and sit in lock-up.
Judge King justified his actions by highlighting the student’s alleged attitude and lack of respect after he warned her about falling asleep. According to the judge, her response to his warning, rather than her sleeping, was what triggered his drastic measure. The judge’s behavior was captured on video, showing the teen in restraints while he criticized her and discussed her potential detention.
Despite later releasing the student, Judge King involved the other students in deciding whether the girl should be sent to a juvenile detention facility. He elaborated on his decision by sharing disturbing anecdotes from his experiences in juvenile detention, underscoring his belief in the seriousness of courtroom decorum and his desire to make an impact on the student’s behavior.
Judge King explained that his actions were intended to demonstrate the gravity of courtroom behavior and were not typical of his usual responses. He asserted that he felt compelled to use such extreme measures due to the perceived disrespect he experienced from the student. Although he acknowledged that his approach was unorthodox, he maintained that it was meant to serve as a wake-up call for the young girl.
The nonprofit organization involved, The Greening of Detroit, has stated that the student was traumatized by the judge’s actions. The judge, however, remained unrepentant, describing his actions as his version of a “Scared Straight” approach designed to leave a lasting impression on the student regarding proper courtroom conduct.
