Magistrates' Court, but was tackled and shackled by alert Police officers before seeing the light of day.

Nineteen-year-old Micah Straw, who is charged with the attempted murder of 36-year-old Andre Rawlins, made the dash for freedom while he was being led from Courtroom One to a downstairs holding area for prisoners.

Plea Court proceedings before Magistrate Cheryl-Ann Mapp were interrupted briefly by the sounds of a crashing and struggle while about three Police officers attending the court rushed to the scene.

The incident was over within half-a-minute and security, which yesterday appeared heavier than normal, filtered back looking slightly scuffled but none-the-worse for wear. Court proceedings meanwhile continued on.

Straw, represented by counsel Mark Pettingill, had appeared earlier in the morning to elect a short form preliminary inquiry for his upcoming trial.

Following his appearance Straw remained seated in the prisoner's dock chatting with spectators seated behind him.

After a few moments Ms Mapp took note. "Excuse me Mr. Straw, your business is done and this isn't the place for you to carry-out your personal visits,'' she interjected, instructing officers to escort him from the courtroom.

A woman, later identified as his aunt, had been talking with Straw just prior to his escape attempt and apologised to Police, saying she had probably distracted him.

Straw faces charges of attempted murder, causing grievous bodily harm, intent to cause bodily harm, and possessing and offensive weapon in connection with an August 25 crowbar attack on Mr. Rawlins.

Mr. Rawlins suffered severe head injuries and broken jaw in the attack. He was found lying in a pool of blood outside Fat Man's Cafe, on Palmetto Road.

Police had not determined whether he would also be charged with attempting to flee lawful custody.