ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — A courtroom in New Mexico became the scene of turmoil during a homicide hearing when three individuals suddenly charged at the defendant, resulting in a violent altercation involving punches and kicks.

Footage from courtroom cameras captured the incident that occurred on January 31, which was brought to a halt when a law enforcement officer intervened with a stun gun to protect the defendant from further harm.

As a result of the chaos, felony charges have been brought against two men for battery and assault on a public official after they reportedly attacked the defendant out of anger related to the death of a family member.

In addition, a woman was arrested on similar charges. The video from the courtroom reveals her striking the defendant and an officer with a chair during the melee.

Despite the presence of corrections officers and other security personnel, maintaining order within courtrooms can be a challenge. For instance, last year, a defendant in a felony battery trial in Nevada caused a disturbance by jumping over the judge’s bench and pulling her hair, leading to a bloody scuffle with court authorities.

Katina Watson, the court executive officer of New Mexico’s Second Judicial District, commented that such incidents are not uncommon.

She acknowledged the quick response of the officer in charge, focusing on safety during the incident, without addressing any potential improvements in security measures. An inquiry regarding the altercation and the courtroom’s security protocols was submitted for commentary by the court.