Attorney taken into custody after courtroom outburst in St Catherine

An attorney-at-law was taken into custody over her conduct during a sitting of the St Catherine Parish Court on Friday.

The attorney was identified as Denniese Walker.

The ordeal began after Walker expressed concern after being informed that a case against her client had been set for mediation.

Walker objected, arguing that the complainant was not present and stating that the matter involved siblings.

"How must mediation be and di complainant not here and is a brother and sister matter. So, call di complainant, as I want it dealt with now," she said.

Acting Senior Parish Court Judge Janelle Nelson-Gayle cautioned Walker about her conduct, telling her that her behaviour was bordering on contempt of court.

Walker continued to insist that the complainant be called, saying: "Officer, call di complainant now please, call her."

The parish judge again asked Walker to refrain from the behaviour and directed her to leave the courtroom.

After exiting, Walker returned and declared, "I am paid to represent him."

The parish judge then asked the police to intervene and to take the lawyer into custody.

Walker objected and continued her action.

Police personnel restrained her outside the courtroom and escorted her back inside before taking her to the holding cells. 

"God send down fire come burn down dis," said the lawyer while being taken to the lock-up.

The judge subsequently directed that another attorney to take on the matter, as she did not want to hear from Walker.

It was indicated in court that Walker would be expected to apologise for her conduct as an officer of the court.

- Rasbert Turner

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