[1rudeboy]

If the jury was in the courtroom at that moment, it appears as though the judge is trying to create the implication that Z's decision not to testify indicates guilt.

[circlecity]

"If the jury was in the courtroom at that moment, it appears as though the judge is trying to create the implication that Z's decision not to testify indicates guilt."

Absolutely. Focusing that much attention on the defendants decision as to whether to testify, especially when there were more defense witnesses to call, would be reversible error in any court in the country.