While he defends himself on charges of obstructing a peace officer, 28-year old Jacob Farmer of Morris already has one strike against him whenever he’s sentenced. He flipped off members of the news media who had permission to take pictures during his case Thursday. Judge H. Chris Ryan found Farmer in contempt of court and said he’ll decide a sentence later.
Farmer, and his sister 29-year old Angel Farmer of Peru, were arrested in March, accused of causing trouble for courthouse security by trying to make videos where it’s not authorized. Angel Farmer is also charged with battery. Both claimed in court Thursday they can’t comply with evidence sharing rules because they’re not allowed to bring their cell phones in.