Man accused of knocking down bailiff while trying to escape Broward County courthouse

Jamal Rutledge charged with aggravated battery on person 65 or older

Jamal Rutledge was arrested after he knocked down a bailiff while trying to escape from the Broward County courthouse, authorities say.

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – An 18-year-old man was arrested Sunday in connection with an October 2015 incident in which he tried to escape from the Broward County courthouse, authorities said.

According to a Broward Sheriff's Office arrest report, Jamal Rutledge was in court Oct. 15, when he became upset over a judge's ruling on another case and tried to run out of the courtroom.

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A Department of Juvenile Justice officer said he attempted to restrain Rutledge in the foyer area of the courtroom, but Rutledge pulled away from him and a "physical altercation ensued."

A court bailiff tried to help detain Rutledge, but was pushed away, causing him to fall down to the floor, the report said.

The bailiff suffered an injury to his left shoulder and a cut to his left elbow.

Rutledge is charged with aggravated battery on a person 65 years of age or older.


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Amanda Batchelor is the Digital Executive Producer for Local10.com.