Defendant slits own throat during court hearing in Wales

A man waiting to be sentenced has slit his throat while standing in the dock in court.

Lukasz Robert Pawlowski was airlifted to hospital after the incident at Haverfordwest Magistrates' Court in Wales.

Wales Ambulance Service described his injuries as "serious".

A Western Telegraph reporter who was in court told Sky News: "The defendant was in the dock for a sentencing hearing when he attracted his solicitor's attention to ask to be allowed to go to the toilet.

"He returned to the dock very quickly, remained standing then muttered something through the glass.

"Suddenly everyone in the courtroom turned as he made stabbing motions at his neck. I couldn't see what he had in his hand, but he made several frantic jabs at his throat.

"It all happened so quickly, the paramedics and police were on the scene really quickly and treated him in the dock as the court was sealed off."

She said everyone was shaken by the incident.

Pawloski, 33, had previously pleaded guilty to sexual assault by grabbing and kissing a shop assistant, the Western Telegraph reported.

A police spokeswoman said officers were called to the court at around 10.20am.

"Officers attended and found an injured man at the scene, who was receiving treatment by paramedics," she said.

"He has been conveyed to Morriston Hospital by air ambulance. The extent of his injuries are unknown at this time.

"The court has been closed in order for inquiries to take place."

Police say they are not looking for anyone else in connection with the incident.

Conservative MP for Pembrokeshire Stephen Crabb tweeted: "Disturbing news. No one should be in a position to harm themselves or others in a court room."