One way or another, Antonio Harris faces a long hitch.
Harris, jailed as he awaits trial on drug and weapons charges, was allowed to get married Wednesday in the courtroom of Common Pleas Judge Steve Martin.
He was supposed to marry Aretha Thomas, 32, on Monday night at home. But that morning, his bail was increased to $200,000. Since Harris, 34, was unable to make bond, the couple got married in court.
Instead of a tux, the groom wore jail-issue black and white stripes, his wrists cuffed in front of him. The bride's ensemble was a polo shirt, jeans and tennis shoes. The newlyweds were allowed a brief kiss before Harris was returned to his cell.
"I know it's kind of unusual," Thomas said. "But that's everyday life. You never know what will happen."
The couple had been engaged 11 years and have two children. Martin said the fact that the couple has children helped sway him to grant the request.
Harris was indicted on charges that include trafficking in cocaine and marijuana, possession of both drugs and illegally having a weapon after a previous felony conviction. If convicted, he faces a 38-year sentence.
