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Local Public Officials Tighten Security

111 views · Published 8 April 2013 · 3:06 · Indexed 28 October 2026

Channel: WTVC NewsChannel 9 · 2013 · News & Politics

by Mikaya Thurmond In one week, a Texas District Attorney and a West Virginia Sheriff were both fatality shot while they were off the clock. In the wake of those two tragic shootings, some Chattanooga public figures say the headlines are putting them on high alert.Hamilton County Criminal Court Judge Rebecca Stern says that after reading these recent stories, she's taking extra precautions. She knows that being a public figure has its dangers. I'm aware all the time. I'm watching, says Stern.At work, she feels perfectly safe in the confines of the court house. She took us on a tour of her courtroom chambers complete with a bullet proof bench and a panic button. She tells us she's only had to use the button once-- when the courtroom became unruly.But, when judicial robe comes off, Judge stern goes on high alert for her safety. I often after a trial when I know there's a lot of emotions or I know someone has been sentenced very highly. I really watch. I lock my doors when I'm driving out of the parking lot. Sometimes I don't leave until a lot of the people have left that way people don't recognize me or know where I park, adds Judge Stern.Being followed home is something the judge has experienced before. Now, she's gotten rid of her judicial tags. At one point we had a security talk at a judge's conference that we go to. These were experts in security for judges and they said take your judiciary tags off because that makes you a target, says Stern.

Local Public Officials Tighten Security

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