A disruption involving a Columbus councilman Tuesday during a murder trial led to police having to chase another man across town.
Sheriff Eddie Hawkins said the incident happened at Lowndes County Courthouse during the trial of Undra Williams, who was charged in May 2023 with the murder of Devan Thompson inside the Inferno Sports Bar.
Hawkins said Circuit Court Judge Jim Kitchens had previously instructed the audience in the courtroom to avoid any outbursts during the trial. However two men, Ward 4 Councilman Pierre Beard and Jaylin Williams, caused a disruption, Hawkins said.
Kitchens ordered that the men be held in contempt of court. At that point Williams, 29, ran from the courtroom and jumped into a vehicle with a woman and another man.
Public Information Officer Bryan Moore said the Columbus Police Department pursued the vehicle and apprehended Williams at 14th Avenue North and Railroad Street. Moore identified the woman as Areiona Williams. Both Jaylin Williams and Areiona Williams were arrested, he said.
Areiona Williams, 29, is charged with possession of marijuana, and Jaylin Williams is charged with possession of paraphernalia. Both are currently being held at the Lowndes County Detention Center.
Beard remained at the courthouse and was fined $300 for contempt of court, Hawkins said.
McRae is a general assignment and education reporter for The Dispatch.
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