Magistrate 'lost composure' over defendant who shouted over sentencing, misconduct hearing reveals

A magistrate who threatened to give a defendant a "good hiding" during a chaotic sentencing hearing has received a formal misconduct sanction, according to a ruling from a misconduct hearing.

Paul Gibson briefly lost control while presiding over what he described as an "extremely challenging and stressful" court session, prompting an investigation into his behaviour from the Judicial Conduct Investigations Office.

The former South-East Essex Bench magistrate, who has since retired but remains on the supplemental list, was issued formal advice following the disciplinary proceedings.

Mr Gibson expressed regret for his actions, acknowledging he had "let himself down badly" during the ordeal.

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A verbal clash erupted between Mr Gibson and the defendant at the moment a prison sentence was being handed down.

According to the ruling, the defendant began shouting abuse at the magistrate and his fellow colleagues from the dock, before proceeding to film the proceedings on his mobile phone.

Mr Gibson was alleged to have warned the defendant he would give him "a hiding if he continued shouting."

The defendant subsequently lodged an appeal, which extended awareness and heightened concerns about public confidence in the magistracy.

In response to the allegation, Mr Gibson claimed his remark was intended for his fellow magistrates rather than being directed at the defendant himself.

He suggested he had said that if the defendant was "anything to do with me, I would give him a hiding."

Mr Gibson acknowledged he had permitted himself to be provoked by the defendant's behaviour, combined with the demanding nature of the hearing.

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He also cited fear for the safety of himself and his colleagues as contributing factors that led him to make the statement.

The ruling detailed how Mr Gibson described the session as a "very difficult hearing."

He offered an apology for his conduct, stating that upon reflection, he recognised how significantly he had failed to meet expected standards.

The sanction of formal advice for misconduct was agreed jointly by senior Judge Mr Justice Keehan and Lord Chancellor David Lammy.

Mr Gibson previously presided over criminal matters as part of the South-East Essex Bench before he retired from active duties.

He continues to be listed on the supplemental list of magistrates.

The published ruling from the Judicial Conduct Investigations Office did not disclose which court the incident took place in when it occurred, or whether the defendant's appeal proved successful.

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