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Attack injures three at Amelia courthouse

Posted at 11:13 AM, Jul 05, 2012
and last updated 2012-07-05 20:14:01-04

AMELIA COUNTY, Va. (WTVR) - A man scheduled to go on trial in Amelia County this morning attacked Commonwealth's Attorney Lee Harrison, an Amelia County Sheriff's Deputy and a member of the courthouse custodial staff, according to the Amelia County Sheriff's office.

Joseph W. Greene, 31, of Powhatan, attacked Deputy Joseph Jones with leg shackles when Jones tried to bring Greene from a holding cell to court, Sheriff Ricky Walker said. Commonwealth’s Attorney Lee Harrison and courthouse custodian Tommy Poore were injured trying to help Deputy Jones.

All three men were taken to the hospital with cuts and bruises. Their conditions have not yet been released.

Greene was taken to another hospital. His injuries and condition has not yet been released. Sheriff Walker said charges are pending against Greene. Greene was due in court on a breaking and entering and grand larceny charges.

The incident happened just before 9:00 a.m. Thursday.

"He could've been loose...you know...about the time that I was coming to work," said Donna Whetsell.

Sheriff Walker emphasized that public and employees are safe when they walk into the doors of the Courthouse.