Assault in stalled lift among 150 incidents reported in country's courthouses last year

Another incident recorded an 'improvised shiv-type weapon' was discovered stashed in a toilet hidden behind piping and a board

The assault was one of more than 150 accidents and incidents recorded by the Courts Service at its 100-plus buildings last year, including a cleaner accidentally locked inside a cell, threats against staff, and a security breach involving a judges’ car park. File picture: Eddie O'Hare

Two people were trapped inside a courthouse lift when one became agitated, slapped the other repeatedly, and lit a cigarette as gardaí were called to the scene.

The assault was one of more than 150 accidents and incidents recorded by the Courts Service last year, including a cleaner accidentally locked inside a cell, threats against staff, and a security breach involving a judges’ car park.