Medical emergency halts Old Bailey hearing for two brothers

A hearing for two brothers charged with the attempted murder of an adult male was interrupted on Thursday after one of the children became unwell. The boys, aged 12 and 14, appeared at the Old Bailey before Recorder of London Judge Mark Lucraft KC. The incident they are accused of occurred on 7 August in Thornton Heath.

Medical emergency in court

The defendants were seated side-by-side behind their legal representative when the incident occurred. As the judge was remanding the boys into local authority accommodation, one of the children appeared to become distressed. The child grabbed his chest and struggled for breath, prompting a court usher to call for first aid. Judge Lucraft temporarily halted the proceedings to allow for medical attention.

Future court dates

Judge Lucraft resumed the hearing once the boys were no longer present. He praised the court staff for their quick response to the medical situation. The judge noted that attending court can sometimes trigger a panic attack. He also noted that up to seven people may potentially face charges regarding the Thornton Heath incident.