Dover, Tenn.–A man who was wielding a brush hook weapon inside the Stewart County Courthouse this week is being held on $166,000 bond.
Michael Dupont, age 46, of Woodlawn, was charged with possession of a deadly weapon during a felony, criminal trespassing, disorderly conduct, carrying a weapon in a public place, burglary, possession of unlawful drug paraphernalia and possession of drugs.
Stewart County Sheriff Frankie Gray confirmed to WENK/WTPR that Dupont made it into the judge’s chambers and is accused of taking the judge’s gavel. He was carrying a brush hook, which is a gardening instrument which resembles an axe.
Gray said the judge was not in chambers and there was no court in session at the time. Security officers took Dupont into custody and no one was injured.
He said several drugs were found in his possession including meth and mushrooms.
Gray said the courthouse was in the process of tightening up its security procedures and by the first of December, metal detectors will be in place and armed officers at the entrance. He said there will be limited access to the main entrance and a separate entrance for employees, attorneys and judges. Those changes will be implemented by December 1.
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