Houston Man Sentenced for Courthouse Window Smashing

HOUSTON – Justin Wade Prophet, a 38-year-old local resident, has been meted out a severe sentence for his violent attack on a federal officer and subsequent property damage.

Prophet pleaded guilty on March 25th, facing charges for assaulting a federal officer after he shattered windows in two downtown buildings. Today, U.S. District Judge David Hittner sentenced him to 150 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. The court acknowledged Prophet’s childhood struggles and mental health issues but emphasized the severity of his crime.

The chaos unfolded on October 26, 2023, when Prophet targeted the federal courthouse in Houston. Armed with a metal pole, he smashed windows and attempted to assault an individual en route to work. He also caused further damage to property inside another building across the street. In a confrontation with authorities from the federal courthouse, Prophet struck one of them with his weapon.

The officer responded by shooting Prophet in his lower extremities. Law enforcement promptly apprehended him and transported him to the hospital for treatment. Prophet will remain in custody until transferred to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility.

Investigation into the incident was jointly conducted by the Department of Homeland Security – Federal Protective Service and the Houston Police Department, with Assistant U.S. Attorney Barri Dean handling the sentencing.

This sentence underscores the court’s commitment to uphold respect for the law and protect the public from future crimes.

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