In a dramatic scene at Sheffield Crown Court yesterday, Recorder of Sheffield Judge Jeremy Richardson KC exploded in anger while addressing a 15-year-old boy accused of murdering Harvey Willgoose at All Saints Catholic School, according to BBC. The tense atmosphere in the courtroom was compounded when several individuals attempted to enter courtroom two during the proceedings.
The disruption prompted Judge Richardson to shout: “Get out!” before he continued, “I am dealing with a murder case, anybody not in here at the moment get out. I’m not accustomed to being interrupted when I am addressing a defendant. Get out! Those who have just come in get out. I’m not having it – the discourtesy is appalling.” The judge’s stern words underscored the gravity of the case and the imperative for courtroom decorum, reported by the Express.
The accused, making his first appearance in a crown court, was arrested following the tragic death of 15-year-old Harvey Willgoose, who succumbed to injuries sustained during an incident at school on Monday lunchtime. Harvey’s body was found after an attack involving a bladed weapon, and the court has been told that the youth now faces charges including murder, possession of a bladed article, and affray. Prior to today’s brief 15-minute hearing, he had been remanded to a youth detention centre and appeared before the magistrates’ court in Sheffield.
No plea was entered at this hearing. However, Judge Richardson set a provisional trial date for June 30th with an expected duration of three to four weeks. The court was informed that up to 20 child witnesses might be called, as police continue to interview pupils who were present when Harvey sustained his devastating injuries.
Addressing the defendant directly, the judge made clear his expectations for the upcoming trial, stating: “I am determined that you will be tried fairly, there is no question about that. “Your trial is going to take place at the end of June, throughout July. “Occasionally, young people like you think that it will be a good thing if they sit and wait at the remand home and refuse to come to court. “If you do that, first it would be very silly, and secondly we will not wait. The case would just go on without you, so please make sure you turn up for every hearing. “You have a right to give evidence in your trial. If you choose not to, there may be consequences. You need to consult with your lawyers before making a decision.”
During earlier proceedings at the magistrates’ court, prosecutor Rob Coyne described how a “Rambo or hunting-style knife” had been recovered, adding: “It went through Harvey’s ribcage and punctured his heart.” CCTV footage of the incident has only deepened the community’s shock over the brutal nature of the attack.
Harvey’s family has been left heartbroken by the tragedy. His devastated mum, Caroline, recalled his final words: “I love you.” She recounted how, moments before the fatal incident, Harvey shouted downstairs, “I’m going to school, Mum. Are you proud of me?” and added, “Lock the door behind me and I love you.” Harvey’s father, Mark, described his Sheffield United-loving son as his “best pal” and a “loveable rogue,” emphasizing the profound loss felt by those who knew him.
