Knife-wielding maniac accused of stabbing officers in courthouse tantrum pleads not guilty as crew of cops stares

The suspect accused of stabbing three officers in a violent attack at a Manhattan courthouse entered a plea of not guilty during his court appearance on Thursday. Jonathan Wohl, 37, faced charges of attempted murder in the first degree for the June 16 incident where he allegedly stabbed three officers inside the lobby of the Manhattan Criminal Courthouse. The courtroom was filled with tension as more than a dozen uniformed cops glared at him while he was ordered to be held without bail by Judge Michele Rodney.

Wohl, known for antagonizing law enforcement for years, was met with strong opposition from court officers who lined the walls of the courtroom in support of the injured officers. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg made a statement emphasizing the importance of ensuring the safety of everyone in the courthouses, including law enforcement officers who play a crucial role in maintaining security.

According to Manhattan prosecutors, the attack unfolded when Wohl entered the courthouse and charged at an officer manning the security station, brandishing a folding knife. He proceeded to slash the first officer in the face multiple times before knocking him down. When another officer intervened, Wohl inflicted cuts on the officer’s face and neck before stabbing him in the upper back five times. Despite the struggle, Wohl managed to stab a third officer in the back of his protective vest before being subdued and arrested.

The violent altercation resulted in a sergeant suffering from broken ribs and another officer sustaining bruises, as per court documents. Prosecutors highlighted the severity of the attack, noting that Wohl used a curved knife that could have been potentially fatal if it had been a straight-edge blade. Wohl is set to appear in court again on October 9 to face the charges brought against him.

The incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by law enforcement officers in the line of duty and the importance of ensuring their safety while carrying out their responsibilities. The courtroom proceedings underscore the gravity of the charges against Wohl and the unwavering support for the officers who were injured in the violent attack.