Court security tightens after Ga.shootings

ATLANTA, April 11 (UPI) -- Security at the Fulton County (Ga.) Courthouse resulting from last month's shooting spree is increasing in advance of a court hearing for the accused shooter.

Brian Nichols, charged with four shooting deaths in the incident, will appear for a pretrial hearing Friday, accompanied by plenty of sheriff's deputies, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution said.

In addition to the extra deputies on permanent duty, an additional security checkpoint has been installed.

The increased security is as much to show the public and courthouse workers that improvements have been made since the shooting, as it is because of fear of another breakout attempt by Nichols.

"I think the people who were here March 11 will be very much aware Friday is an important day," said Judith Cramer, court administrator.

The last time Nichols was in the courthouse was when he was on trial on a kidnapping charge.

Nichols overpowered a deputy who was guarding him and allegedly shot and killed Superior Court Judge Rowland Barnes, court reporter Julie Ann Brandau, Deputy Sgt. Hoyt Teasley and U.S. Customs agent David Wilhelm.