There is a joke that applies here. There always exists two types of players on the team. There are no shortages of the punters, who kick away the ball as soon as they get it or the Monday morning quarterbacks who always make the right decision after the action is over. Of course not many want to play the line in real time, take the hits or the responsibility.
As soon as the judge refused to move the venue, it was clear that the fix was in and this police officer was to be the sacrifice to the crowd.
Somebody send a towel and wash basin to the courtroom, so the drama of Judge Pilate reading the verdict can be complete.