GOSHEN, N.Y. — Two Newburgh men were indicted Wednesday for separate attacks on their defense attorneys during court proceedings, Orange County District Attorney David M. Hoovler announced.
Arthur Thomas, 47, and Donnie Smith, 33, were each arraigned in Orange County Court on charges of attempted assault in the second degree. Both men were remanded to Orange County Jail without bail. Their next court appearances are scheduled for June 17.
According to court documents and statements, Thomas allegedly attacked his attorney on May 16 during a murder trial related to a 2020 homicide in Newburgh. The incident disrupted the proceedings and led to a mistrial. The murder trial will be rescheduled.
In a separate incident on May 21, Smith allegedly assaulted his attorney during a hearing for attempted murder and related charges stemming from an alleged 2024 crime in Newburgh. That court proceeding was also disrupted by the attack.
District Attorney Hoovler acknowledged the assistance of the Orange County Sheriff’s Office and the New York State Office of Court Administration in the investigations.
Courtroom safety emphasized following assaults
“The sanctity of the courtroom and the safety of all parties who enter must be maintained in order to ensure the proper administration of justice,” Hoovler said. “While I am thankful that the attorneys in these matters avoided serious injury, we nonetheless will seek to hold accountable anyone who endangers anyone in court or attempts to disrupt the proceedings.”
Hoovler also commended law enforcement and court officers for their role in maintaining order and safety in the courtroom during these incidents.
Defense attorneys involved in both cases were not seriously injured, according to authorities. Specific details about the nature of the assaults were not released.
Both Thomas and Smith remain in custody as their new court dates approach.
