A man has been given a further five-month prison sentence after admitting to contempt of court for throwing a radiator at a judge and assaulting him during a court hearing in Wales. 41-year-old Greg Hazeltine was already serving a three-year jail term for his previous actions towards Judge Patrick Perusko at Milton Keynes Family Court. Hazeltine, in an incident last year, repeatedly punched Judge Perusko, threatened him, and verbally abused Recorder Dharmesh Patel at two earlier hearings. During the court appearance at the High Court, Hazeltine admitted to being in contempt of court for a total of nine incidents that occurred across three hearings in 2023. The judge, Mr Justice Cobb, noted that the assaults were committed during hearings in November 2023, February 2023, and July 2023.
The series of events escalated with Hazeltine verbally abusing and making indirect threats to Judge Perusko, followed by throwing a radiator at the judge and physically attacking him. The court heard that Hazeltine had also previously interrupted Judge Patel during a judgment delivery and had used threatening and abusive language towards him. Hazeltine’s barrister, Jessica Lee, mentioned that her client had been navigating family proceedings without legal representation, which had been distressing for him. Hazeltine expressed regret and apologized for his actions, acknowledging that he could not justify his violent behaviour towards the judge.
Despite the challenges Hazeltine faced during the family proceedings, Mr Justice Cobb emphasized that his contempt for the legal process was evident through his disrespectful and aggressive conduct towards the judges. Hazeltine’s actions were deemed as a blatant interference with the administration of justice and a disregard for the dignity and authority of the court. The judge acknowledged Hazeltine’s frustration at the delays in his case but stated that his behavior was unacceptable and undermined the legal process. Hazeltine’s repeated insults, threats, and intimidation towards the judges were considered as a serious offense that warranted a further prison sentence.
During the sentencing hearing, Hazeltine appeared via video link from HMP Highpoint in Suffolk, with his parents and partner present in court. His admission of guilt and expression of remorse were taken into account by the court. Mr Justice Cobb decided not to impose a separate penalty for the previous offenses for which Hazeltine had already been sentenced, focusing on the severity of the assault on Judge Perusko as the most significant offense. Hazeltine’s actions were described as insulting, intimidating, and abusive towards the judges who were carrying out their duties diligently. The judge concluded that Hazeltine’s behavior was unacceptable and amounted to a blatant disregard for the legal process and the administration of justice.
The case highlights the importance of respect for the legal system and the authority of the judiciary. It serves as a reminder of the consequences of disruptive and violent behavior in courtrooms. Hazeltine’s actions have led to additional time behind bars, emphasizing the serious repercussions of contempt of court and physical assaults on judges. The judiciary plays a crucial role in upholding the rule of law and ensuring fair and just legal proceedings, and any form of interference or disrespect towards the judiciary will not be tolerated. In conclusion, the sentencing decision underscores the gravity of Hazeltine’s behavior and the significance of maintaining decorum and respect within the court environment.