The jury in the trial of a man accused of attacking staff at a hospital with a metal bar has been discharged. Omar Momand, who denies wounding with intent, will now face a new trial next year.
Allegations of hospital attack
Momand was said to have "hunted down" and struck no fewer than six members of staff at Newton Community Hospital with such force that the weapon used during the incident was left bent out of shape. Some NHS workers were forced to barricade themselves inside a bathroom and the outpatients department after being repeatedly hit over the head with the blunt object.
Court proceedings and jury discharge
Momand has been on trial at Liverpool Crown Court accused of four counts of wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and one of attempting to cause grievous bodily harm with intent, charges which he denies. But Recorder Gavin McBride, the judge presiding over the case, discharged the jury this morning, Wednesday, telling them: "I have come to the conclusion that I must discharge you.
"It must be very frustrating for you. I thank you very much for the work that you have done in this case. I am sorry that you cannot continue. I thank you for your engagement."
New trial scheduled
Momand, represented by Sarah Griffin, will now face a fresh trial, lasting around five days, on February 15 next year. He was further remanded into custody until this date, with a mention hearing scheduled on October 28.
