A Detroit judge, identified as 36th District Court Judge Kenneth King, has been temporarily removed from the docket following an incident where he handcuffed and put a sleeping teenage girl in a jail uniform during a field trip to his courtroom. This controversial action took place during a visit organized by the nonprofit organization The Greening of Detroit, aimed at educating students about the legal system.

The incident occurred on Tuesday when a group of children participating in The Greening of Detroit's three-week program visited the 36th District Court as part of their field trip activities. The purpose of the visit was for students to observe a real trial and interact with a judge. Prior to the proceedings, Judge King addressed the students, answering their questions and fostering a sense of understanding.

However, during the courtroom session, Judge King noticed a 15-year-old girl from the group falling asleep. Rather than simply waking her up, he publicly reprimanded her. "You fall asleep in my courtroom one more time, I'm gonna put you in back understood," the judge sternly warned the teenager, causing shock and concern among the rest of the visiting students.

Chief Judge William McConico has taken swift action in response to the incident. Judge King has been temporarily removed from the docket, and an internal investigation will be conducted to examine the underlying issues that led to this incident. Additionally, Judge King will undergo training to address these concerns and prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.

McConico emphasized the court's commitment to serving the community with integrity and fairness, and reassured the public that the actions of Judge King on August 13th do not align with the court's principles. He stated, "The 36th District Court remains deeply committed to providing access to justice in an environment free from intimidation or disrespect."

The mother of the sleeping teenager, Latoreya Hill, expressed her shock and distress upon seeing her daughter, Eva Goodman, in handcuffs and a jail uniform. Hill questioned the judge's actions and his knowledge of the full story. She explained that Goodman's behavior was a result of their current unstable housing situation and the family's struggle to make ends meet.

Judge King defended his actions, claiming that the teenager's attitude and disposition had prompted his response. He justified his actions as a means to teach her about courtroom decorum and respect. However, Hill and others have criticized his approach, questioning the appropriateness of publicly humiliating a child.

The incident has sparked a debate about the role of discipline in the courtroom and the treatment of young individuals within the justice system. Many argue that there are alternative and more effective methods to teach children about the consequences of their actions without resorting to such extreme measures.

As the internal investigation proceeds, the community waits to see what actions will be taken to address the controversial behavior displayed by Judge King. Ultimately, this incident serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining a respectful and considerate environment within the justice system, especially when involving young individuals who are learning about the legal system.