Heat-Packing Judges Step onto the Firing Range

Several judges in Tulsa, Oklahoma, are stepping down from the bench and on to the firing range.

They're practicing firing pistols, rifles, and even AR-15s in an effort to increase security in the courtroom.

Judges say they often preside over cases that are packed with emotion, and their rulings might trigger an angry outburst, so it's important to be able to protect themselves.

"We have plenty of court security, but obviously we cannot be at every place at every moment in the day, so the judges are here for the training," one court deputy said.

Tulsa County Judge Kurt Glassco said it only makes sense to have more courtroom personnel carrying guns.

"One of my courtroom deputies was injured when he was shot in the hand and another of my deputies actually shot the bad guy. The answer truly is - if you have a bad guy with a gun, you need a good guy with a gun," he said.

The judges are not required to carry guns in the courtroom, but the sheriff's office offered the training so that those who do, will be properly trained.