Dock-hop escape bid plea

A man who attempted to escape from custody during a court appearance has admitted doing so in front of the judge who witnessed his dock jump.

Tahina Edwards appeared by video link from prison in the Christchurch District Court yesterday – and the hearing was a stark contrast to the scenes of struggle on October 26.

Judge Michael Crosbie was again on the bench, but made no comment, even though he had the best view of the escape attempt.

Edwards made his bid for freedom in the main list court at the Christchurch Court House, but he pleaded guilty at the new justice precinct.

The 32-year-old, who was listed as having no fixed abode as well as an address in Shirley, pleaded guilty to attempting to escape, resisting police and breach of bail.

He was remanded in custody to January, when he has case reviews on driving charges, burglary, threatening to kill, injuring with intent and possession of a firearm, ammunition and a Taser.

Police said Edwards had been arrested on several charges when he made his appearance at 10.30am on October 26.

He made no bail application that day and was remanded in custody for a next appearance by video link from the prison. Edwards wanted to be brought to court that day, rather than appear by video link, and the judge heard arguments on the issue.

When Judge Crosbie ruled he would appear by video link, Edwards clambered over the wall of the dock and jumped onto the court floor.

Police intervened and Edwards was stopped in the public seating area.

Several police staff tried to restrain Edwards, who refused to comply with instructions.

He resisted being handcuffed by placing his arms tightly across his chest and remained in that posture despite repeated requests to stop.

‘‘He was eventually overwhelmed by sheer weight of numbers,’’ police told the court.