In an unusual incident during a virtual court hearing, a judge in Detroit ejected a single mother after she was caught making a peanut butter and jelly sandwich on camera. Asja Outerbridge, a fashion stylist, appeared before 36th District Court Judge Sean Perkins, who grew frustrated with her informal attire, which included a bathrobe and T-shirt, as well as her distraction from the court proceedings.
Outerbridge explained that she was catering to her sick three-year-old daughter at home when the session began. Judge Perkins acknowledged her situation but emphasized the importance of maintaining decorum during court, stating, "Ms. Outerbridge, I’m sorry your daughter is sick, but again, you’re in court, OK?” This was particularly sensitive as Outerbridge had been late, entering the virtual courtroom nearly four hours after the hearing was originally scheduled.
After being removed from the session due to her behavior and attire, Outerbridge later reflected on the incident, admitting she could have better prepared for the hearing. She also expressed her wish that the judge had been more accommodating, acknowledging her own missteps while questioning the relevance of continuing virtual court sessions in the current climate, especially since her hearing gained attention after being streamed online.
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