Alarming court footage shows the moment a quick-thinking prosecutor realised an alleged abuser was hiding in the same home as his victim during a court case.
The victim was describing her ordeal on a Zoom call, but appeared to be playing down an alleged assault by boyfriend Coby James Harris, while repeatedly glancing to the side.
The defendant, who was also on the Zoom call, appeared to be moving around as victim Mary Lindsey looked at something off-screen, raising fears for her safety.
Prosecutor Deborah Davis said she was "very scared" for Mary, and the case was dramatically halted as the judge said it was the first time he had ever had "anybody sitting in the next room potentially intimidating a witness."
Harris, 21, was on the call facing a charge of assault with intent to commit bodily harm less than murder.
Police had been called to an address in Sturgis, Michigan, on February 9, the Sturgis Journal reported.
Ms Davis said: "The fact that she’s looking off to the side and he’s moving around – I want some confirmation that she is safe before we continue."
Both the defendant and victim were asked where they were, and they gave different addresses.
However Judge Jeffrey Middleton was suspicious with Harris' response, and told him to prove where was by going outside and showing a door number.
The defendant claimed he could not because his phone was running out of charge.
He then claimed that neither he not the victim wanted an order in place banning him from going near her.
Police were dispatched to Mary's house, where Harris said on camera: "Me and Mary both don’t want the no-contact.
"I ask that that be dropped. I’m sorry I lied to you. I knew the cops were outside."
The judge told him to take the cigarette out of mouth and adjourned the hearing.
He added: "Your bond is cancelled… In addition, the prosecutor is probably also going to charge you with obstruction of justice.
"It may be a situation of you and Mary want the bond conditions lifted, you want them lifted, she does not. We’re serious as a heart attack.
"It’s the first time I ever had anybody sitting in the next room potentially intimidating a witness."
When Harris tried to interrupt again he was told: "You’re digging your hole. ‘You hit bottom and you’re continuing to dig.
"Officers are directed to take him into custody on a bond violation."
The hearing will continue March 16, and Harris was taken to the St Joseph County jail.
Call Refuge’s National Domestic Abuse Helpline for free and confidential advice, 24 hours a day on 0808 2000 247 or through the contact form or live chat service. If you are a male victim, you can access support through the Men’s Advice Helpline on 0808 8010327. Other specialist support services are available. If you are in immediate danger, call 999 and ask for the police .
