Derrick Mills, 52, was removed from a Manhattan courtroom on Monday after an explosive argument with the judge presiding over his case. Mills is accused of shoving 77-year-old Trevor Crawford onto the subway tracks of the 6 line in September 2023.

Before his hearing began, raised voices were heard from the back of the courthouse as Mills spoke with his lawyer. When brought before Judge Julieta Lozano, Mills initially remained silent. The judge stated she had reviewed security footage provided by the prosecution, calling the attack an "unprovoked violent act" and agreeing to move the case to trial in October.

At this, Mills became agitated, claiming he had only seen one video that showed his accuser "blocked." He asserted that the single piece of security footage had been "duplicated about five times" and that the judge could not see what the accuser was doing. As Mills's voice rose and he continued to argue with Lozano, the judge ordered court officers to "take charge," leading to Mills's removal from the courtroom.

Mills has pleaded not guilty and is scheduled to appear for trial on October 27. His lawyer stated that Mills, who is homeless, struggles with mental health issues. He is accused of shoving Crawford after becoming angry that the victim had "stared in his direction."

On September 12, 2023, Crawford was on his way home from work when he reached the 68th Street-Hunter College subway station. According to the notes, Mills then allegedly attacked the elderly man. Crawford was pulled to safety by MTA workers before a train arrived, and Mills fled the scene. He was later arrested after a witness recognized him from surveillance footage.

MTA Transit President Richard Davey stated at the time that the subway system records crimes, and the NYPD will pursue prosecution. "This was a disgusting incident that understandably unsettled riders," Davey said, thanking the public for assistance in the rapid arrest.

The assault left Crawford with five shattered ribs and pelvic injuries. Crawford told PIX 11 that he had not spoken to Mills before the attack, recounting that Mills allegedly yelled, "Didn't I tell you not to say anything to me?" before pushing him. Crawford, who is 5-feet 7-inches tall and weighs 118 pounds, said he felt "nervous" but not scared during the incident.

His granddaughter, Kerry-Ann Martin, noted that Crawford still has a palm print on his chest from where he was pushed. She described her grandfather as a "feisty" man who does not seek trouble. Colleagues at Crawford's job at a Fifth Avenue parking garage described him as a "perfect guy."

This incident marks Mills's second assault charge; he faced a prior charge in 2000, though it is unclear if he was convicted.