"I don't think we're ever going to know what actually happened -- except that she broke procedure, leaving herself vulnerable to attack and consequently lost her weapon to Nichols"
You are most likely correct.
However, where are the -layers- of defense one would expect?
Stuff happens and we have to plan for it. Will our PC world forbid a clear headed and frank review of this event?
I won't hold my breath........
You mean, will there be a review of forced AA hiring? A review of massive incompetence and negligence in the Sheriff's department and the Atlanta Superior Court?
I think the short answer is, "No."
My best guess is that there will be a scape-goat or two who will be fired or convinced to resign. Then things will tighten up for a month or so. Then everything will go right back to business as usual.
Violent felons will once again be permitted to roam the courthouse without restraints or stun belts.
Deputies will be unqualified, ill-trained and unsupervised.
But the important thing is that they will all be the right color, the right sex and the right persuasion.