New Courtroom Next to Law Enforcement Center Opened Wednesday

The Grand Opening of the new courtroom at the Law Enforcement Center took place Wednesday morning as ceremonies were squeezed in between plea bargains and docket call. At 11 a.m., Hopkins County Judge Robert Newsom welcomed the packed courtroom of county officials, community leaders and members of the public present.

District Judge Eddie Northcutt told those present that he remembers when County Judge Newsom, who at the time was the presiding District 8 Judge, drew a plan for the new courtroom on a napkin to illustrate how functional it could become. Northcutt thanked Newsom and County Commissioners’ Court for their efforts in making the room efficient and functional. Northcutt cut the ribbon for the opening saying, “For justice”.

District Attorney Will Ramsay (right) addresses those present for the Grand Opening of the new courtroom. County Judge Robert Newsom (left) introduced Ramsay to those present.

District Attorney Will Ramsay said he knew the new courtroom would facilitate efforts to obtain justice.

Judge Robert Newsom, center, thanked Hopkins County Commissioners past and present for their work toward the new courtroom. Commissioners include (left to right) Precinct 1 Commissioner Mickey Barker, Greg Anglin, Precinct 2, Wade Bartley, Precinct 3, and former Commissioner Precinct 4 Danny Evans and current Precinct 4 Commissioners Joe Price.

The building includes a passage way for inmates to be brought from the jail area, a room for the jury easily accessed from the jury box and an office for the District Judge just off the bench area. Safety for inmates, judge, jury and others is a feature commended by those who spoke.

County Judge Newsom thanked Tom Glossup for overseeing the construction and Judge Northcutt and DA Ramsay for their contributions to design.

Members of law enforcement, county fire department, Sulphur Springs City Council members and Mayor John Sellers were among those present for the event.

Author: Staff Reporter

Share This Post On