Rodney Hinton Jr. Trial
PRESS REPORT | COURTROOM INCIDENT
OCTOBER 14, 2026 | CINCINNATI, OHIO
COURT-APPROVED MEDIA MEMBER ORDERED TO DELETE PHOTO OF ON-DUTY DEPUTY!
Today, while covering the murder trial of Rodney P. Hinton Jr. at the Hamilton County Courthouse, I witnessed a juror who appeared to be sleeping during testimony.
As an approved member of the press representing Purposed For The People Press, I brought my concern to the attention of Deputy Ryan Harris, badge #1364.
His response was, “What am I supposed to do?”
When I informed him that the incident needed to be documented, he told me to STOP.
Afterward, I approached Deputy Harris outside the courtroom to request his name and badge information. During our interaction, he became visibly upset and informed me that he had not given me permission to photograph him. He then instructed me to DELETE THE PHOTOGRAPH!
Let me be clear: I was present as COURT-APPROVED MEDIA with authorization to take still photographs. Deputy Harris was in uniform, on duty, and performing his responsibilities as a public servant.
SINCE WHEN DOES AN ON-DUTY OFFICER’S PERSONAL PERMISSION OVERRIDE COURT-APPROVED MEDIA AUTHORIZATION?
Corporal Gregory Thompson intervened and de-escalated the situation. He explained that the deputies were present to provide security and directed me to the appropriate courtroom staff regarding my concern.
I appreciate Corporal Thompson’s intervention.
My concern remains: WHY WAS A REPORT ABOUT A JUROR APPEARING TO SLEEP DURING TESTIMONY MET WITH DISMISSAL INSTEAD OF BEING REFERRED TO THE APPROPRIATE COURT OFFICIAL?
The integrity of a criminal trial matters. Jurors must pay attention to the evidence, and members of the press should be able to raise legitimate concerns through proper channels without unnecessary confrontation.
I am publicly documenting my firsthand experience and seeking clarification regarding the deputy’s demand that I delete a photograph.
THE PRESS HAS A JOB TO DO. SO DOES LAW ENFORCEMENT. ACCOUNTABILITY MATTERS.
MS. CELINA CHARLES
Purposed For The People Press
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