IE 11 is not supported. For an optimal experience visit our site on another browser.

Suspect Pays the Price for Yawning in Judge's Face

A suspect was sent to jail after yawning and telling judge, "I don't care, man."
A suspect yawns as he appears before a judge in South Florida.
A suspect yawns as he appears before a judge in South Florida.Broward Circuit Court

- NBC Miami

A yawning suspect earned a stern rebuke and a trip to jail after he told a South Florida judge, "I don't care, man."

Joseph Butler was facing grand theft and resisting arrest charges when he appeared before Broward Circuit Judge John Hurley Tuesday in the incident captured on court video.

A suspect yawns as he appears before a judge in South Florida.
A suspect yawns as he appears before a judge in South Florida.Broward Circuit Court

Butler, arms crossed, stood as the prosecutor read from his lengthy criminal past then yawned loudly, drawing the ire of Hurley.

"Oh don't worry, sir. Sir, I heard you yawn, but don't worry. You won't yawn in just a minute. Trust me on that one," Hurley said.

"I don't care, man. I really don't care," Butler said.

"I know this is boring to you and you'd rather be out doing something else, but I can guarantee you won't be stealing anymore after this conversation," Hurley replied.

Hurley then set Butler's bond at $104,000, but ordered him held without bond on three previous grand theft arrests.

"So he's gonna be staying in jail for awhile," Hurley said after dismissing Butler. "Good, maybe he can yawn all he wants while he over there."