YSL Rico trial Fulton County Judge Paige Reese Whitaker found herself in the spotlight after using the N-word while reading aloud rap lyrics Friday, during a non-jury court session.
The moment sparked an online heated reaction, as some viewers were shocked, while others appreciated her straightforward approach in handling culturally sensitive material. Whitaker did return to the bench after lunch and issued a formal apology.
Known for her no-nonsense style, Whitaker took over the high-profile case from Judge Crooked Ural Glanville, who was removed following a contentious ex-parte hearing involving a key witness without defense attorneys present. While some regard Whitaker as a refreshing presence in the courtroom, others have questioned her conduct, citing moments they feel cross the line of professionalism.
Friday’s session became particularly charged when Whitaker’s reading of rap lyrics, meant to provide context to the case, led her to utter N*gga, prompting a quick reaction from prosecutor Symone Hylton and stirring online discussions.
Despite these criticisms, Whitaker’s unapologetic approach to engaging with Black culture within the courtroom has related her to some, albeit with an occasional eyebrow-raising moment.
In her apology, she explained that she had been reading the lyrics for the first time and regretted not filtering her reading. “I do not use that word,” she clarified, emphasizing her intent was not to offend but to accurately reference the lyrics. Whitaker acknowledged she could have reviewed the text beforehand to ensure appropriateness, closing with an apology “for the record.”
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