The first video arraignments conducted this week in Hamilton County Criminal Court went “smoothly,” according to court personnel, and are expected to add a layer of security to the courthouse during routine procedures.
“We have more (incarcerated defendants) being transported (from jail) on arraignment days than any other day,” Hamilton County Criminal Court Judge Barry Steelman said.
About 50 recently indicted incarcerated defendants attended their first court hearings, or “arraignments,” in which they pleaded “not guilty” to criminal charges, from jail via video this past Wednesday and Friday in two of the three criminal courts.
Using video equipment to conference with the inmates from jail, Judge Steelman noted, not only will cut back on security concerns but also provide relief from the heavy transportation of prisoners on Wednesdays and Fridays, when arraignments take place.
“I think the court officers have been pleased with it,” Judge Steelman said.