A courtroom hearing in Thibodaux took an unexpected turn when a woman who had just pleaded guilty in a hit-and-run case received additional jail time for her behavior in court.
What began as a routine hearing quickly escalated after the defendant reacted strongly to the judge’s decision about her community service. The situation ultimately led to a contempt of court ruling and extra jail time.
Hit-and-Run Case Hearing in Thibodaux
Marshal Calvin Cooks Sr. confirmed that on March 2, 2026, 35-year-old Shakettia Nichole Skinner of 202 Kettle Drive in Thibodaux appeared before Thibodaux City Court for a scheduled hearing related to a hit-and-run case.
During the hearing, Skinner pleaded guilty to the charge. The court decided to give her a suspended sentence, meaning she would not immediately serve jail time for the original offence as long as she followed the court’s orders.
The judge also ordered her to:
- Pay $387 in fines and court costs
- Complete 40 hours of community service
The Thibodaux City Marshal’s Office carried out the court’s orders after the hearing.
Dispute Over Community Service Assignment
During the court proceedings, Skinner asked the judge where she would be required to complete her community service hours.
The judge informed her that she would be assigned to the Lafourche Parish litter detail. This programme involves helping with roadside cleanup work across the parish.
After hearing this, Skinner reportedly became upset. According to officials, she began speaking to the court in a disrespectful tone and showed visible frustration with the decision.
The judge then instructed her to sit down so she could calm herself. The intention was to give her time to regain composure before continuing with the hearing.
Court personnel also advised her to follow the judge’s instructions.
However, officials said Skinner refused to sit down and continued to confront the court while appearing increasingly agitated.
Judge Finds Defendant in Contempt of Court
Because of her continued behaviour in the courtroom, the judge ruled that Skinner was in contempt of court.
Contempt of court occurs when someone disobeys court rules, interrupts proceedings, or shows disrespect toward the judge or court process.
As a result, the judge initially sentenced her to 30 days in jail.
However, the situation escalated further when Skinner again addressed the court using vulgar language. Following this incident, the judge added another 60 days to the sentence.
Transported to Lafourche Parish Jail
After the court ruling, Skinner was taken into custody.
Authorities transported her to the Lafourche Parish Correctional Complex, where she was booked into jail. Officials reported that the transport and booking process happened without any further problems.
The Thibodaux City Marshal’s Office confirmed that they carried out the court’s order as directed.
Understanding Contempt of Court
Contempt of court is a serious matter because it disrupts the legal process and challenges the authority of the court.
Common reasons someone may be charged with contempt include:
- Refusing to follow a judge’s order
- Interrupting court proceedings
- Using abusive or disrespectful language in court
- Creating a disturbance during a hearing
Judges have the authority to impose penalties such as fines or jail time to maintain order and respect in the courtroom.
