Smelly inmate stinks up courtroom

Proceedings inside the courtroom at the Kingston and St Andrew Parish Court were upended yesterday when a strong odour emanated from the holding area, causing visible discomfort for all present.

The stench was so overwhelming that presiding jurist, Senior Parish Judge Sanchia Burrell, was forced to get a mask before proceedings could begin.

"We have to get someone out of the holding area," she said at the start of the day's session.

Tension peaked when a man, who is accused of unlawful wounding, was summoned from the holding area. As the court officer opened the door to escort him, she visibly recoiled, attempting to shield her nose. The accused stepped into the courtroom, and his presence was immediately met with unease. People seated in the front row began covering their noses, while one woman resorted to fanning her face with a piece of paper.

"Found him!" Burrell exclaimed.

The unpleasant odour led to squirming and whispered complaints, with one person at the back muttering, "Him stink eeh." Some struggled to stifle laughter, while others erupted into coughing fits.

Unable to endure the smell any longer, Burrell declared, "[Name of defendant] can't stay here any longer. Somebody tell him quick quick to plead."

The man promptly pleaded guilty to the charge of unlawful wounding and was escorted outside the courtroom. In his wake, a court assistant swiftly grabbed a can of Lysol and began spraying the area where he stood.

"Go outside and spray it too," Burrell instructed, determined to clear the air.

A sense of relief swept through the courtroom as order was restored to the proceedings.