Magistrates have jailed a man who racially abused a court legal advisor.
Edward Kinsella, 61, of Capper Close, Kendal, admitted being in contempt of court when he appeared at South Cumbria Magistrates' Court, Barrow-in-Furness, on Thursday, 27th August 2020.
In accordance with section 12 of the Contempt of Court Act 1981, the Magistrates' Court has the power to imprison any person who insults the Justices (or other officer of the court or witness) for a period not exceeding one month, or to fine them a maximum of £2,500, or both.
According to earlier reports, Kinsella appeared before the same court on 10th August in relation matters of assault and racially-aggravated harassment. It would appear that he denied those charges and the prosecution made an application to have him remanded in custody prior to his trial.
Clearly unimpressed at the prospect of being remanded, Kinsella banged aggressively on the glass panels of the secure dock and shouted racial abuse at the legal advisor.
After a few hours of quiet reflection, contemptors are usually given the opportunity to apologise to the court. It would appear that Kinsella attempted some sort of apology, but the bench was unconvinced at the sincerity of his words.
Kinsella was sentenced to 28 days' custody, with the Presiding Justice saying that the offence was so serious that only a custodial sentence was appropriate. Of course the fact that he is already on remand makes the sentence slightly less arduous.
His trial on the other matters will take place at the same court on 21st October 2020.
Good manners cost nothing. Kinsella would do well to remember that.
No comments:
Post a Comment