STUART, Fla. — There were some tense moments in a Martin County courtroom Wednesday morning.
A suspect, Evan Paul McCullough, 46, of Stuart, was in court for a routine status check hearing at 9:12 a.m.
WATCH: Sheriff says McCullough has been 'nothing but trouble'
Video posted to the Martin County Sheriff's Office Facebook page showed a handcuffed McCullough pushing over a lectern and charging toward Judge William Roby, attempting to attack him.
The sheriff's office said that McCullough also spat at the judge.
The video showed McCullough fall to the ground as he reached the bench.
WATCH BELOW: Martin Co. inmate charges at judge during hearing
Multiple deputies inside the courtroom quickly intervened to restrain McCullough.
Sheriff John Budensiek told WPTV that the attack was unprovoked just minutes after the inmate entered the courtroom.
"There was nothing to ramp up that confrontation," Budensiek said.
Budensiek said McCullough is a "special status" inmate who's been in jail for two years. He was initially booked for trespassing.
The sheriff said he's been combative and was already facing charges related to attacking officers and threatening another judge while in custody.
McCullough faces a new charge of corruption by threat and battery on a judge.
"Judges really do put themselves out there," said Budensiek. "But it's a dangerous job for them."
Wednesday's court hearing was to determine if McCullough could be moved to a state hospital since he has been deemed mentally unfit. However, Budensiek said he will now have to stay in jail even longer.
The 19th Judicial Circuit sent WPTV the following statement on the incident:
Our circuit experienced a courtroom incident today that underscores the importance of judicial security. While we are in the process of gathering additional information, the safety of judges, court personnel, and the public remains a paramount concern of the judicial branch.
Unfortunately, acts of violence and threats against judges are on the rise nationwide. A recent survey found that 56 percent of state court judges reported having been threatened. In response to these growing concerns, the Florida Supreme Court recently established a Workgroup on Judicial Security to review judicial safety and recommend improvements. In addition, the Legislature has passed measures enhancing criminal penalties for tampering with, harassing, or retaliating against court officials.
The courts are committed to ensuring that every case is heard fairly and impartially in an environment that is safe for all participants. We thank law enforcement and court staff for their swift response today, and we reaffirm our commitment to maintaining the integrity and security of the judicial process.
