A Detroit judge, who handcuffed a 15-year-old student for falling asleep during a courtroom field trip, has been demoted to handling traffic offenses following the incident.
Judge Bruce King, who sparked outrage by jailing Eva Goodman after she nodded off in his courtroom, will now oversee cases involving minor infractions such as speeding tickets.
King’s reassignment follows a suspension last month and an order to complete social-emotional training as part of the consequences for his controversial actions.
Despite his demotion, King’s attorney, Todd Perkins, indicated that the judge accepts his new role, stating that King “truly understands and wholeheartedly embraces the concept of teamwork.”
The incident occurred when Goodman, part of a student group visiting King’s courtroom, fell asleep during proceedings.
King handcuffed the teen and threatened to send her to juvenile detention before ultimately releasing her. Goodman’s mother, Latoreya Till, later explained that her daughter was likely exhausted due to their unstable housing situation.
Till has since filed a lawsuit against King, seeking over $75,000 in damages for “inflicting fear and severe emotional distress.”
In defense of his actions, King previously referred to his decision as his “own version of Scared Straight,” even offering to mentor the teen.
However, his disciplinary actions have faced criticism, leading to his reassignment to traffic court, where he will preside over minor cases moving forward.
Judge William McConico, who issued the statement on King’s new role, expressed hope for the judge’s success in his new position, saying:
“We appreciate his efforts in preparing for this role, and wish him success as he transitions into this new responsibility.”
