Judge Joe Locascio in Kansas City played along with the novel proposal as court clerk Kalina Blosser sat next to him.

Mike Severo walked into the courtroom and approached the defendant’s stand, where he was addressed by the judge.

In a video published on Mr Severo’s Facebook page, Judge Locascio says: “Mr Severo, there’s several charges against you.

“You’re accused, in 2013, while training Kalina Blosser as a court clerk, of failing to maintain a demeanour as a stone cold fox and allowing her to trespass on your heart.

“In count two, you’re accused of following the said Kalina Blosser around this courthouse for three solid years like a puppy dog in an attempt to gain entrance into her heart.

“How do you plead to these charges?”

Mr Severo replied: “Guilty, your honor.”

When prompted to explain what he would offer to restitution, he addressed Ms Blosser and asked her to marry him - and she said yes.