James Henry Marshall charged with carrying gel blaster near Robina Hospital, triggering lockdown

A man who allegedly triggered a lockdown at a major Gold Coast hospital carrying a gel blaster has dismissed a charge as “not real”. Read why he told court he is “pretty confident”.

A man who allegedly triggered a lockdown at a Gold Coast hospital while carrying a gel blaster has revealed plans to fight the case against him.

James Henry Marshall denied the allegation and claimed the charge against him was “not real” after a brief appearance in Southport Magistrates Court on Friday.

He is charged with going armed so as to cause fear and breaching a bail condition.

James Henry Marshall outside the Southport courthouse. Picture: Jessica Paul

The 43-year-old was allegedly found holding a gel blaster after a dramatic police operation at Robina on February 13, sparked by reports of a “gunman” near the train station.

It was reported at the time that nearby Robina Hospital called a ‘Code Black’, placing the hospital and emergency department into lockdown out of “an abundance of caution”.

Mr Marshall was arrested about 90 minutes later.

Robina Hospital the day of the alleged incident. Picture: Charlton Hart

His case was listed for sentence this week, but he instead told the court he now wanted to plead not guilty to the going armed charge.

Mr Marshall said he had not yet sought legal advice but was “pretty confident” in his defence.

His case was adjourned to May 7, where it was heard Mr Marshall would be able to speak with a duty lawyer on the day.

He remains on bail.

Originally published as James Henry Marshall charged with carrying gel blaster near Robina Hospital, triggering lockdown