Detroit Judge Demoted After Controversial Field Trip Incident Returns to Lesser Duties

A Detroit judge, previously removed from his duties after controversially ordering a teenager into jail attire and handcuffs during a courtroom field trip, is back on the bench but reassigned to handle speeding tickets and minor offenses, AP reported. Judge Kenneth King, who lost his main courtroom responsibilities in August, has now been transferred to the traffic division of the 36th District Court following an order for emotional and social training from Chief Judge William McConico.

"We appreciate his efforts in preparing for this role and wish him success as he takes on this new responsibility," McConico stated.

Judge King, represented by his attorney Todd Perkins, expressed a willingness to fulfill any role within the court. "He truly understands and wholeheartedly embraces the concept of teamwork," Perkins noted.

The controversy began when King singled out 15-year-old Eva Goodman for falling asleep and exhibiting, in his view, a poor attitude during a visit to his courtroom. King instructed her to wear jail clothes and be handcuffed, an act that was broadcasted via a livestream video, and further threatened her with juvenile detention. He eventually released her.

Goodman's mother, Latoreya Till, argued that her daughter's fatigue was due to their lack of a permanent home. King has since apologized via television statements. Till subsequently filed a lawsuit, seeking over $75,000 for "inflicting fear and severe emotional distress."

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