Peanut Butter and Jelly in Court: Woman Removed from Virtual Hearing

A Detroit woman's unusual courtroom appearance has sparked a debate about the balance between court decorum and extenuating circumstances. The incident, which occurred during a virtual hearing in the 36th District Court on May 28, 2025, involved a woman who was making a peanut butter and jelly sandwich while participating in the session. The judge, visibly frustrated, stated, "We can't talk at the same time." The woman, attempting to explain her actions, said, "I apologize, but my daughter is sick, and I had to keep her home from school. I'm just trying to feed her." While the judge acknowledged her explanation, he ultimately found her in contempt of court. This incident highlights the challenges of conducting virtual court proceedings and the need for flexibility when dealing with unexpected circumstances.