Security reviewed following Merced courthouse attack

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By Geoff Roth

Story Published: Apr 29, 2008 at 10:44 PM EDT

Story Updated: Apr 30, 2008 at 7:31 AM EDT

In the aftermath of an attack that led to the shooting death of 40-year-old Robert Eaton, security at the Merced County courthouse is being questioned. Eaton was shot to death by sheriff's deputies after he tried to attack a judge with two knives.

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Eaton ran past unarmed security guards at the courthouse entrance on Monday and then ran into courtroom #2, where he lunged at Judge Brian McCabe. Sheriff's deputies in the court room shot Eaton before he could injure anyone.

A lack of armed security guards at the courthouse entrance is being blamed by local officials on state budget cuts. State funding pays for security at the courthouse.

Colin Jackson reports.

View Oldest Comments First

Thursday, Jan 15 at 11:26 PM ksford wrote ...

I have seen the entire video and interviews of what occurred. The deputies acted with due diligence and followed their training. The man was responsible for his actions, that ultimatly lead to his death which was unfourtunate. Thankfully none of innocent bystanders at the courthouse that day were injured or killed and the Deputies were not harmed. All in all, if someone had to die, let it be the suspect in the rampage. Would you have rather had a fatal stabbing of the Judge and Deputies?

Sunday, Oct 12 at 11:31 AM Frances wrote ...

I was told by people in the courtroom that he did not lunge at the judge that he just stood there. I was told the judge was very far from R. Eaton. Why did the judge come back out of his chambers? I am sure we have heard of many untruths in this sad situation. Time will tell!

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