The sentencing of a 52-year-old man has been adjourned for the fifth time after he refused to leave his cell.
Mark McDermaid, 52, of The Glen, Palacefields, Runcorn, was due to learn how his case would be dealt with via videolink at Chester Crown Court on Friday morning. He had previously pleaded guilty to one count of threats to kill and one of assault by beating, both committed against the same woman in Runcorn on August 11.
McDermaid was unavailable for the hearing amid concern over his mental health. William Staunton, McDermaid’s barrister, told the hearing that staff at HMP Altcourse had told him: “Apparently the defendant has refused to come forward from his cell.
