A defendant appearing at Ipswich Crown Court today allegedly removed a piece of glass from the dock and threatened staff.

Armed police were called to court room four at 10.35am where the case of Frederick Daniel Richard Potter was being heard.

It is understood Potter, 34 and from Barking, pulled a panel of glass away from the railings in the dock and threatened security staff.

Potter had already pleaded guilty to assault by beating, three counts of threatening to kill, criminal damage and two counts of false imprisonment. He is due to be sentenced in the week commencing May 15.

Just before the incident happened, Potter’s case had been adjourned and he was told he would be remanded in custody.

No one was injured as a result of the incident.

It is not known at this stage if Potter will face another charge in relation to this event.

Four police cars and a police van were lined outside the court, in Russell Road, around 10.45am.