What is the proper procedure if a Court Officer observes a crime occurring in the courthouse?

The correct approach for a Court Officer observing a crime in the courthouse is to report it immediately to law enforcement personnel. This protocol is crucial for maintaining safety and order within the courthouse, which serves as a venue for legal proceedings. The presence of law enforcement ensures that specialized personnel trained to handle criminal situations respond promptly and manage the scenario effectively.

Additionally, courthouse environments have strict security protocols designed to protect all individuals present, including court personnel, litigants, and the public. By notifying law enforcement, the Court Officer activates these protocols and aids in the swift resolution of the incident while allowing them to focus on their primary responsibilities.

It is important to recognize that attempting to handle the situation independently could potentially escalate the crime or put the officer and others at risk. Similarly, ignoring the crime could allow unlawful behavior to continue unchecked, jeopardizing the safety and integrity of the courthouse environment. Informing the judge after ensuring safety may also delay necessary actions that should be taken by trained law enforcement, which could be critical in a high-stakes or rapidly developing scenario.