'I'll gag you': Shocking moment judge orders defendant's mouth taped shut during sentencing

Judge John Russo told Williams he would undo the tape only when he was ready to speak to the defendant during the sentencing hearing on Tuesday. Photo / Fox 8

An armed robber had two pieces of red tape placed over his mouth during his sentencing on Tuesday.

Cleveland man Franklyn Williams, 32, was convicted of three armed robberies during his trial, but clearly still had more to say on the matter as Judge John Russo tried to speak, video from FOX8 shows.

Williams spoke over the judge and his own attorneys despite multiple warnings to be quiet, forcing Judge Russo to order tape be placed over his mouth so the sentencing could proceed.

"Mr Williams, I'm the judge in the matter. Shut your mouth, and I'll tell you when you can talk," he told the defendant.

"If we have to, I will gag you in one second."

Moments later, explaining the court stenographer would not be able to keep up if Williams continued to argue over him, Judge Russo ordered his mouth sealed shut, the MailOnline reported.

"I'm going to tape it, and I'll unzip it when I want you to talk," he said.

Video of the incident shows Williams surrounded by police as one applies a thick piece of red duct tape over his mouth.

When he sees the officers approach, he tries to stand up but is pushed back down into his seat by one officer, who then applies the tape tightly.

Williams had previously been sentenced to 14 years for the crimes after pleading guilty, but won an appeal when a jury found he had been misinformed about his possible early release date.

During his re-trial, the 32-year-old cut his ankle bracelet and disappeared.

On Tuesday, he was eventually sentenced to 24 years jail.