The internet and media outlets were quick to judgment after video of Corey Harris’ court hearing went viral. But court records show a judge ordered Harris’ license reinstated in 2022.
A Michigan man, Corey Harris, found himself in the spotlight after a video of him attending a virtual Zoom court hearing while driving his car went viral. The hearing was related to charges from an October traffic stop in Pittsfield Township, Michigan. Judge Cedric Simpson noticed Harris driving with a “suspended license” during the hearing and revoked his bond, ordering him to turn himself in at the Washtenaw County Jail by 6 p.m. that day.
However, court records obtained by USA TODAY revealed that another judge had actually rescinded Harris’ license suspension in January 2022. The suspension had stemmed from a child support case with Saginaw County Friend of the Court, but the reinstatement was not communicated to the Michigan Secretary of State’s office, leading to the clerical error.
Despite the confusion, Harris complied with Simpson’s order and spent two days in jail before the misunderstanding was cleared up. In an interview with WXYZ-TV, Harris expressed his embarrassment over the situation and explained that his main concern during the hearing was getting his wife medical help.
The Michigan Secretary of State’s office acknowledged that the process to reinstate a driver’s license can be complicated and sometimes requires communication between different agencies to ensure all necessary clearances are obtained. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of accurate record-keeping and communication in legal proceedings.
