Texas Judge Accused of Handcuffing Attorney in Courtroom

Judge Rosie Speedlin Gonzalez indicted on charges of unlawful restraint and official oppression

Jan. 31, 2026 at 6:31pm

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A Texas judge, Rosie Speedlin Gonzalez, has been indicted on felony and misdemeanor charges after allegedly handcuffing a defense attorney, Elizabeth Russell, in her courtroom and detaining her in the jury box during a hearing last year. The incident occurred when the judge and attorney clashed over the defendant's plea during a probation revocation hearing.

Why it matters

The case has raised concerns about judicial misconduct and the appropriate boundaries between judges and attorneys in the courtroom. It also highlights the potential for abuse of power by judges and the need for accountability in the judicial system.

The details

According to the indictment, the dispute between Judge Gonzalez and Attorney Russell escalated when Russell asked for a moment to confer with her client after the defendant pleaded "true" to one of the allegations. The judge allegedly told Russell that attorneys cannot coach their clients and proceeded with the plea. The judge then ordered Russell to be taken into custody and placed in the jury box, which Russell claims restricted her movements without consent and interfered with her liberty.

  • The incident occurred in 2024, during a hearing on whether to revoke probation in a case.
  • Judge Gonzalez was indicted on the charges on January 29, 2026.

The players

Rosie Speedlin Gonzalez

A 60-year-old Texas judge who oversees Reflejo Court, a treatment program for first-time domestic violence offenders. She was indicted on a felony charge of unlawful restraint by a judicial officer and a misdemeanor charge of official oppression.

Elizabeth Russell

The defense attorney who was allegedly handcuffed and detained in the jury box by Judge Gonzalez during the courtroom incident.

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What they’re saying

“I'm a proud public servant, I'm LGBTQ, I own a gun, I'm bilingual, I'm an American citizen — and I have every right to defend myself.”

— Rosie Speedlin Gonzalez (The Post)

“As long as I walk in righteousness and have God at my side I will be fine.”

— Rosie Speedlin Gonzalez (The Post)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Rosie Speedlin Gonzalez to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the need for greater oversight and accountability within the judicial system, as well as the importance of maintaining professional boundaries between judges and attorneys in the courtroom. It raises questions about the appropriate use of judicial power and the potential for abuse.