Manly Local Court: Courtroom evacuated after outburst from man in public gallery

A man has been taken into custody after a sudden outburst inside a Manly courtroom led to its evacuation.

Manly Courthouse had to be evacuated after an outburst from a man. Picture: Martin Lange

Intense scenes at Manly Local Court saw all members of the public gallery evacuated from a courtroom after an outburst from a man, who it is believed was due to appear.

About a dozen people were rushed into the lobby of the courthouse after a man began shaking and screaming just after 10am.

It is not clear what triggered the outburst, or why the man was at court.

As soon as the man walked onto court premises he began screaming at staff and made his way into the courtroom.

He was shaking and rocking his body and unable to speak without screaming.

“Australia is a nation of bullies,” he repeatedly screamed.

Magistrate Michelle Goodwin addressed him, immediately asking if he was getting medical assistance.

“No, I’m not. I can’t afford it, I can’t even look after myself,” he screamed.

“If we would get you to a hospital to see if you need medication or treatment, would you do that?” The magistrate asked.

The magistrate said she was considering placing him in custody.

Due to his irrational behaviour, all those sitting in court were asked to leave the room as police came to escort him into custody.

There were a handful of people led out the room. Those who were waiting outside of court had also left.

He was escorted out of the court room by police and has been taken to hospital.