CABELL COUNTY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – A courtroom hearing regarding an abuse and neglect case took a tense turn when Jeremy Henson, one of the respondent parents, made concerning remarks after learning the Department of Human Services would seek to terminate his parental rights.
The hearing, presided over by Judge G. Howard, involved parents Jeremy Henson, Amanda Henson, Tessa Curry, and Rodger Porter. The courtroom was filled with approximately 25 to 30 individuals, including attorneys, DHS representatives, and caseworkers. Due to prior threats made toward Judge Howard, three deputies were present for security.
During the proceedings, Attorney William Dawson of the Cabell County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office informed the court that DHS intended to seek the termination of Amanda and Jeremy Henson’s parental rights at the next hearing. Jeremy Henson then reportedly mumbled, “I’mma start shooting.” Attorney Dawson brought the comment to the judge’s attention, prompting Henson’s attorney to clarify that he believed his client had said, “Better shoot me.”
Judge Howard asked Henson to repeat himself, to which he responded, “You better just shoot me.” This statement caused unease in the courtroom due to Henson’s previous violent history, including a recent guilty plea to battery.
After regaining control of the courtroom, Judge Howard concluded the hearing. Deputies escorted Jeremy and Amanda Henson out, and witnesses were asked to remain seated to complete statements. Ten written statements were collected, with six indicating that Henson had threatened to start shooting, while four noted they only heard the word “shooting.”
Concerns for courtroom safety were expressed by multiple attorneys and caseworkers, and the Cabell County Sheriff’s Office is reviewing the incident.
