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Judge Belinky seeks altercation explanation
YOUNGSTOWN
The presiding judge of Mahoning County Common Pleas Court wants a full report about an argument in the courthouse rotunda among spectators outside a murder trial.
Probate Judge Mark Belinky, who is the presiding judge, made the request in a Wednesday letter to Sgt. Thomas DeGenova of the county sheriff’s office, who heads the contingent of deputies that provides courthouse security.
“There was a ruckus in the courthouse on the second floor, and, as presiding judge, I just wanted to find out from the sheriff’s department what happened,” Judge Belinky said.
“Courthouse security is always an issue for us. It’s as simple as that,” Judge Belinky said.
The spectators were gathered for the aggravated murder trial of Tyrell Ravnell, 20, of Halleck Street, who is charged in the June 20 shooting death of Christian Blackshear, 19, of Wirt Street, at the Kirwan Homes housing project in Campbell.
The jury trial is in the second floor courtroom of Judge John M. Durkin; and Judge Belinky’s court is on the first floor.
DeGenova said members from the two families had a short verbal dispute in the hallway outside the courtroom Tuesday. He said deputies intervened and made those arguing leave the building. The argument continued outside, but deputies made the individuals leave the area.
DeGenova said there was no physical altercation and no arrests were made. Those arguing were not permitted to return to the court proceedings Tuesday.
“There was no physical confrontation. When emotions run high between families sometimes this is what you get,” he said. “Had it escalated further than that, we would have made an arrest.”
Amy Denunzio, court bailiff, said the judge did admonish those attending the trial, reminding spectators that they are in a courtroom and expected to behave as such.
Although the courtroom can’t be closed, sheriff’s deputies can provide tight security, oust troublemakers and arrest them, if necessary, Judge Belinky said.