Seattle's courtrooms are no stranger to unusual antics, but recent behavior from a known local figure has prompted legal professionals to cry foul. The man in question, 21-year-old Miles Hudson, known online as the "Belltown Hellcat," is facing charges related to harassment and reckless driving. Hudson's court appearance—or lack thereof—on Wednesday has been criticized as disrespectful, with a city prosecutor describing his actions as a "mockery" of the court process.
During the hearing, instead of appearing in person, Hudson connected via video link with the camera initially turned off, reported The New York Post. When finally visible, he was sporting a ski mask, sunglasses, and a hood, wearing them for what he claimed were "religious reasons." Assistant City Attorney James Kenny expressed concern to Judge Willie Gregory that Hudson was not "obeying the court's order," according to KOMO News. Further adding to the spectacle, the city prosecutor alluded to Hudson's sizeable social media following, accumulated from videos that feature his modified Dodge Charger speeding through the streets of Seattle.
Judge Willie Gregory remained firm throughout the proceedings, keeping the standing bench warrant against Hudson in effect amidst the disruptions. "I think he’s not taking this seriously enough, but I’m taking it seriously," FOX 13 Seattle quoted the judge. Despite his antics, Hudson's next court appearance is mandated for Monday, where he is expected to appear in person.
Hudson's notoriety also stems from the uproar he has caused among Seattle residents due to the excessively loud exhaust of his vehicle. Appearing in front of a window that prominently displayed his silhouette, Hudson once again wore dark sunglasses and a balaclava, further complicating the visual clarity of the video call, noted KOMO News. Despite the charges he faces—which include stalking, harassment, and reckless driving—Hudson has not made any payments towards the hefty $83,000 in fines levied against him for noise violations caused by his car, according to the same source.
