An Ohio man is facing charges for assault after he allegedly sucker punched a court official. The assault reportedly happened just moments after a court hearing for another assault occurring in 2010. The judge had just sentenced Jerome Hickman to three days credit for time served in his 2010 assault case, then as Hickman was leaving the Cleveland Municipal Court he allegedly struck the court official and was immediately arrested.
The judge in Hickman's case reportedly voiced concerns about the man's need for mental health treatment. Reports indicate that the judge wanted to give Hickman more time in jail for his 2010 case, but was bound by statute to sentence him to either three days in jail or a $150 fine due to the charge's minor misdemeanor status. Hickman now faces felony charges on the new assault case.
Assault charges are a serious matter in Las Vegas, and elsewhere in the country. Assaults on certain protected individuals, like court employees and police officers, can increase the penalties an person convicted of assault will face. If you have been arrested for assault, or another violent crime, it is imperative that you contact a skilled criminal defense attorney right away. The attorney's at Brown Law Offices can provide you with a consultation to discuss your charges and evaluate the specific circumstances of your case.
In Nevada, assault is defined as "unlawfully attempting to use physical force against another person or intentionally placing another person in reasonable apprehension of immediate bodily harm." NRS 200.471. Depending on the alleged victim of the assault and whether or not a weapon was used, the crime could be charged as a felony or a misdemeanor and could result in up to six years in prison.
If you, or someone you know, is facing assault charges the Las Vegas criminal defense attorneys at Brown Law Offices can evaluate your case for free. Contact our office 24/7 for a free consultation. (702) 405-0505.