By Indrawattie Natram

– Magistrate, court staff ‘hurry for cover’

ESSEQUIBO Magistrate Esther Sam on Thursday immediately left the Bench and hurried to her Chambers, after 36-year-old prisoner Francis Gonsalves attempted to end his life at the Suddie Magistrate’s Court. The incident occurred around 14:30hrs.

The man’s unpredictable behaviour had caused alarm and sent persons in the courthouse running for the exits.

The labourer was in court on a threatening language and assault charge committed on Susan Smith. After the charge was read to him he pleaded not guilty and was remanded.
Upon hearing this he began to hit his head on the prisoner’s dock mercilessly until his head started to ooze blood. After that he attempted to jump through a window but police ranks at the court barred him.

He was then taken to the Suddie Public Hospital for medical attention where he was seen and sent away. He is currently in police custody assisting with investigations.
Gonsalves is on trial at the Charity Magistrate’s Court for break and enter and larceny committed on the home of Susan Smith. His case was postponed to May 14.