The judge’s gavel cracked like a gunshot, but it didn’t silence the courtroom, it just gave the mob of cameras permission to reload.

“Case of Ricci v. State of New York, emergency custody review,” the clerk droned, as though he wasn’t announcing the opening bell of a bloodsport.

Flashbulbs erupted despite the order against them. Reporters didn’t care. This wasn’t law—it was ratings. The headlines were already written: Mob Princess Steals Designer Baby. Don Bianchi Hides Orphan ...