There’s been news this week of another courthouse shooting, this time in Chesterfield County, SC. The news report states that a 21-year-old mother was ambushed and shot twice by her child’s father following a child support hearing in Family Court. Apparently, the father did not attend the court hearing, but was instead waiting outside the courthouse for the mother to emerge before shooting her.
This news comes on the heels of another horrific incident this week in Delaware outside a courthouse where a child support hearing was scheduled. In that incident, the father of a man who kidnapped his three young daughters in 2007 opened fire with a handgun, killing his former daughter-in-law and her friend and wounding two police officers.
Most people feel fairly secure when they enter into government buildings, including Family Court, and for the most part they should. Our county buildings are typically secured with both armed deputies, bailiffs, and/or police officers along with metal detectors located at any entry point. However it is always good to remember that you can never be too safe.
If you, or someone you know, is going through a Family Court case and believes, for any reason, your safety may be at risk during or following a hearing, you should report your concern to your attorney and to the first bailiff or security personnel that you encounter when you arrive at the Courthouse. Safety escorts are always available for anyone who requests them.