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Saturday 29 February 2020

Defendant Attempts to Slash His Own Throat at Portsmouth Magistrates' Court


An alleged burglar tried to slash his own throat with a concealed razor blade when he was refused bail at Portsmouth Magistrates' Court.

The 48-year-old, who has not been named by the local The News newspaper, was in the secure dock alongside two custody officers. He was facing charges of burglary, going equipped and vehicle interference.

On hearing the news that he would be remanded in custody until his trial date, he produced the blade from his underwear and attempted to slash his own throat.

The two officers quickly disarmed and subdued the man, who was restrained on the floor of the dock.

The defendant had appeared in the morning's remand court, over which District Judge Gary Lucie was presiding. He had been arrested and charged by Hampshire Police, before being handed over to GEOAmey staff for transfer to the court.


GEOAmey holds the Ministry of Justice Prisoner Escort and Custody Services (PECS) contract for the majority of England and Wales. It is responsible for the safe and secure transportation of prisoners to and from court. It is also responsible for the safe and secure custody of prisoners when they are in court.

A GEOAmey spokesman said: "We can confirm an incident at Portsmouth Magistrates' Court yesterday (Friday, 28th February 2020) where a defendant self harmed in the dock.

"He received only superficial injuries which did not require hospital treatment and was returned to custody."

Hampshire Police declined to comment on the incident.

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