Extensive damage was done to the Sarnia courthouse Wednesday when a prisoner allegedly broke off a sprinkler head in a holding cell.
City police say a man, arrested on charges of assaulting an officer, uttering threats, and causing a disturbance, was remanded in custody at a bail hearing at 3:40 p.m.
After being placed back in a third-floor cell, it's alleged he took off one of his shoes and struck the sprinkler head.
It's estimated that water sprayed out at high volume and high pressure for about 20 minutes, flooding the entire cell block area, causing other prisoners to be transferred to other areas.
Electronic equipment had to be removed and courts were evacuated and delayed because the alarm system was activated.
The torrent of water released was so significant that it flowed to other floors, damaging the judge's chamber and other offices below.
Damage to the courthouse and property is expected to be in the thousands of dollars.
Prior to his appearance while being taken to the courthouse, police say the man was belligerent and confrontational, and allegedly threatened to shoot one of the escorting officers.
Kevin Rene Racette, 28, is charged with uttering a death threat, setting off a false alarm, mischief over $5,000, and mischief by interrupting lawful use, enjoyment or operation of property.
