Tensions between Brevard County Judge John C. Murphy and assistant public defender Andrew Weinstock resulted in a challenge and apparent fight just outside a courtroom in Viera on Monday morning. Judge Murphy repeatedly told Mr. Weinstock to be quiet and sit down after a heated argument about court procedure. Mr. Weinstock refused the judge's order when Judge Murphy pronounced, "I said sit down. If you want to fight lets go out back and I'll just beat your ass." Weinstock unwisely marched outside and received some deep south justice. On the video, while they are off camera, the judge is heard saying: "I'm not kidding. You wanna [expletive] with me?"
In a later interview, Mr. Weinstock said as soon as he got in the hallway the judge grabbed him by the collar and began punching him in the head. Mr. Weinstock tried to stop the blows and courtroom bailiffs came into the hallway and pulled the judge off Mr. Weinstock.
The judge's behavior is deemed uncharacteristic and an isolated incident as Judge Murphy has a long and respected career as an outstanding judge by both Public Defenders and Assistant State Attorneys.
Below is the RAW uncut video: