A DeSoto County Assistant District Attorney, Thomas Waller, found himself on the other side of the law after being arrested for contempt of court while reportedly in a state of inebriation. According to DeSoto County News, Circuit Court Judge Celeste Wilson ordered the arrest when she observed Waller "visibly intoxicated," emitting a "strong odor of alcohol," and making "incoherent statements."

Details regarding the arrest, which took place in the courtroom yesterday, have been scarce but the actions have led to Waller being booked at the DeSoto County Adult Detention Center later the same afternoon, as cited by WREG. Waller's conduct, as noted by Judge Wilson, was believed to have "interfered with the dignified conduct of the court’s business." Following the arrest, District Attorney Matthew Barton acknowledged awareness of the incident, stating he would "release a statement sometime Friday morning."

In further details disclosed by FOX13, the court order outlined that Waller would be subject to 11 days in jail, with all but eight hours suspended, as well as a $100 fine. Additionally, Waller has been ordered to report to the Lawyers and Judges Assistance Program within 10 days following his release, where he must follow their recommendations as part of his sentencing.

The ramifications for Waller's courtroom actions extend beyond just the immediate arrest; his professional standing and future with the District Attorney's office hang in the balance, pending further internal review and public statement by his superior, District Attorney Barton said, "I was made aware of an incident involving one of my ADA’s after 5:30 this evening and will issue an official statement (Friday morning)," as reported by both FOX13 and DeSoto County News.