The triple killer refused to leave his cell for his court hearing today
Southport murderer Axel Rudakubana has been handed a new sentence today to correct a “technical error” in a judge’s initial ruling almost two weeks ago.
Rudakubana’s sentence for three counts of murder has been amended from “custody for life” to “detention at His Majesty’s pleasure” – because he was under 18 at the time of the offence.
But the triple killer refused to leave his cell for his court hearing today – despite being due to appear at Liverpool Crown Court via link from HMP Belmarsh.
Carmel Wilde, defending, told the court: “We understand from staff at Belmarsh that he has refused to leave his cell to attend court or to speak to his legal team.”
It comes after the genocide-obsessed murderer erupted into various tirades during his sentencing in January – meaning he had to be excused from the courtroom.
Justice Goose, who sentenced Rudakubana, said: “I’m going to continue with these proceedings for the time being,” but the 18-year-old interrupted, saying: “I feel ill, judge. I feel ill. I’m going to pass out. No. I can’t continue with this.”
The judge responded by saying: “I’ve asked you to be quiet.”
The prosecution was asked to continue but Rudakubana shouted: “I can’t continue with this, judge. No, no it can’t continue judge. I need to speak to a paramedic. I need to speak to a paramedic. My chest is hurting.”
As he was escorted out of the hearing, a member of the public gallery shouted “coward” at him.
Goose said today: “The case of the Crown against Axel Rudakubana was listed for mention on the application of the prosecution.
“The purpose of this hearing is to correct a technical error, but which will have no effect on the total sentence imposed on the defendant on January 23 this year.”
The judge said the sentence is “still a life sentence”, but of a different kind, adding: “The defendant has refused to waive his right to attend or to be here.”
