A doctor is facing criminal contempt proceedings after he allegedly brandished a handgun during a video-conferenced bankruptcy court hearing in the midst of an eviction dispute with his landlord. The doctor, who is not being named since the proceeding is pending, was ordered to appear before U.S. District Judge John Kness to “show cause why he should not be held in criminal contempt of court.” The doctor was representing himself in his own bankruptcy case when the incident occurred and did not realize that the Zoom call was technically being treated as the same as appearing in person.
During the hearing, the doctor accused his landlord of threatening his life and stealing money and prescription pads. He then, allegedly, held up his concealed carry permit and a large black handgun to the camera. He claimed that “as a result of the landlord’s behavior, he carried the weapon with him at all times.” The judge then stopped the doctor from speaking and informed him that he was not allowed to have a weapon in a court of law, which the video hearing constituted.
Need to speak to an attorney? Call us at 816-524-4949 or visit our website to schedule a consultation.