Man jumps over dock and assaults security after getting prison sentence

George McDonald grabbed one security officer by the neck (Picture: NCJMedia/PA)

A defendant jumped over the dock, ran from the court and assaulted several security officers after being told he would be sent to prison.

George McDonald, 24, had been given 16 months inside for assault occasioning actual bodily harm and common assault.

But he didn’t accept the sentence, instead making a break from Newcastle Crown Court on February 16 this year.

He was eventually restrained and taken to serve his sentence, but managed to grab one security officer by the neck and punch another in the ribs in the process.

McDonald appeared back at the court yesterday via link from HMP Northumberland to be sentenced for contempt of court, which he admitted.

Recorder Ian Mullarkey, said: ‘Having been sentenced, you moved away from the dock officer, jumped over the dock, and moved towards the court clerk as you tried to find your way out.

‘You fled from the courtroom followed by the dock officer. You were aggressive towards him and tried to punch him. You made your way downstairs where you were encountered by a second security officer and you barged him into a wall.

The incident happened at Newcastle Crown Court (Picture: PA)

‘The dock officer detained you and you punched him in the ribs. More security officers restrained you but you freed an arm and wrapped it around an officer’s neck until you were further restrained.’

Mr Hudson, defending McDonald, of Ashington, said there was ‘no hesitation’ in his admission and said he apologises.

He said that the injuries the officers sustained were ‘thankfully, minor’ and said McDonald has mental health issues, as well as ADHD.

Mr Hudson added: ‘He was upset because there are certain people who would like to say hello to him in prison.

‘That’s why he jumped the dock. It was a short outburst, it was not planned or deliberate.’

Recorder Mullarkey added the incident was a ‘serious episode’ and said he must pass a deterrent sentence.

McDonald was given a nine month prison sentence, which will run consecutively to his 16 month prison sentence imposed in February.

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