In a bizarre turn of events, a virtual court hearing in Ann Arbor, Michigan, took an unexpected twist when a defendant appeared via Zoom while behind the wheel of his car. Corey Harris left Judge Cedric Simpson visibly perplexed as he dialed into his court session for a suspended license while driving.

The incident, which occurred on May 15, quickly gained traction online, with footage of the unusual hearing going viral. As the split-screen video began, Harris, accompanied by his public defender, joined the proceeding while in motion.

Judge Simpson, clearly taken aback, questioned Harris about his whereabouts. Unfazed, Harris nonchalantly mentioned that he was “pulling into [his] doctor’s office” while continuing to focus on the road, oblivious to the judge’s concern.

Despite the judge’s attempts to clarify the situation, Harris remained adamant, asserting that he was parking. The public defender, seeking an adjournment for her client’s case, added to the confusion.

However, Judge Simpson persisted, questioning the gravity of the offense. His incredulity was evident as he reiterated the charges against Harris, who had been previously charged with driving with a suspended license in October 2023.

Ultimately, Judge Simpson made a decisive ruling, revoking Harris’ bond and ordering him to turn himself in to the Washtenaw County jail by 6 p.m. that day. Harris, taken aback by the severity of the consequences, expressed disbelief as the hearing concluded.

Following the incident, Harris was indeed jailed on May 15 but was subsequently released on bond two days later, according to the Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office.

The startling nature of this virtual court appearance underscores the challenges and complexities of conducting legal proceedings remotely. As technology continues to reshape the way we engage with the judicial system, instances like these serve as reminders of the need for vigilance and adherence to proper protocols, even in virtual settings.