An assistant public defender who tussled with court officers pleaded not guilty Tuesday as she appeared in court on charges of obstructing governmental administration, criminal contempt and harassment.
Catherine Ejimadu was accused of fighting with courtroom deputies last year, sending three of them to the hospital. Ejimadu, who also suffered a wrist injury, said she wanted to help calm down a disruptive client, but Judge Theresa Johnson ordered her out of the restricted area where the client was held for her own safety.
The Monroe County Sheriff’s Office says Emijadu then became disruptive and refused orders to leave the courtroom. A deputy tried to escort her out, at which an altercation began that ended with Emijadu on the floor in handcuffs.