Overview
- Officer Matthew Jackson identified himself on a 36th District Court Zoom hearing while wearing his uniform shirt but no pants, prompting Judge Sean B. Perkins to ask, “You got some pants on, officer?”
- Jackson replied, “No, sir,” adjusted his camera to crop out his lower half, and the proceeding continued.
- Court records show the defendant later pleaded guilty and received a $240 fine after the hearing moved forward.
- Police Chief Todd A. Bettison apologized publicly, said the matter is under review, and indicated the department will remind officers about proper virtual court etiquette.
- The court’s published dress code prefers casual business attire and bans shorts but does not specifically address Zoom appearances, as the widely shared courtroom video renewed questions about remote-hearing standards.