An Orange County murder suspect who is accused of strangling his own defense attorney and derailing his trial was back in court on Tuesday.

Arthur Thomas was seen escorted by sheriffs and walking into Orange County Court in Goshen in handcuffs and shackles after the alleged outburst last Friday resulted in a mistrial. During the hearing, he was assigned a new attorney, Joe Artrip.

His former lawyer, Matthew Witherow, who is also a part-time judge in the City of Port Jervis, was unhurt during the incident and told News 12 that despite the attack, he remains committed to his professional oath and clients.

“I’m used to fighting for my clients on a daily basis. Notwithstanding what happened here, my commitment to these ideals is unwavering,” Witherow says.

Thomas was on trial for a fatal stabbing in Newburgh in 2020. A juror told News 12 in an exclusive interview that Thomas suddenly strangled the attorney to the ground on the second day of testimony and was quickly restrained by court officers.

A new trial date is expected to be set in the case with a new jury.

News 12 reached out to Artrip for comment but didn't immediately receive a response.

Thomas is due back in court June 10.