A new hi-tech video link system is being introduced at Southend Magistrates' Court so dangerous criminals can be tried without leaving their prison.
The equipment will allow a direct link from a courtroom at the building in Victoria Avenue to Chelmsford Prison.
Demo - Southend court clerk Martin Harris shows how it works today Picture: STEVE O'CONNELL
Court bosses hope the system will reduce the risk of defendants escaping and protect staff and visitors from any threat of attack.
A similiar link is is in use at Basildon, Harwich and Harlow magistrates' courts.
The new initiative comes just months after a defendant leapt over the dock at Southend court and made a dash for freedom.
Drug addict Neil McCormack was finally overpowered by a police officer and a security guard following the bizarre incident on March 27. He is now serving a nine-year prison sentence for a string of burglary and robbery offences.
Martin Harris, a legal advisor at the court, said: "The great thing about this system, is that there is no longer any threat to our staff. High profile cases, such as the Ian Huntley trial, can encourage a crowd to gather outside and throw eggs.
"This way we avoid all danger. The safety of our staff is paramount to us."
Published Friday, June 13, 2003
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