With the trial of suspected Seattle killer Isaiah Kalebu a few weeks away, attorneys, jail staff, and a judge are looking at some unusual ways to make sure the outburst-prone defendant doesn’t lash out in court, reports the Seattle Times. Kalebu, who is accused of torturing and raping two women, and killing one of them, routinely has interrupted court hearings with complaints over his treatment by jail staff and objections to his defense.
During one recent hearing, he knocked over chairs and cursed at Judge Michael Hayden. Hayden is concerned a mistrial could result if Kalebu’s outbursts continue. He has a long history of mental illness but has been ruled mentally competent to stand trial. Jail staff have asked Hayden to allow them to use an electroshock stun-gun sleeve on Kalebu during the trial. If he acts out, a corrections officer inside the courtroom can press a button that will send an electric shock to the sleeve, which is attached to the defendant’s arm or leg. A defense attorney warned that if jurors witness Kalebu being shocked, the defense could seek a mistrial.