Man accused of attacking legal assistant in courthouse elevator

FULTON COUNTY, Ga. — A legal assistant was attacked in an elevator at the Fulton County Courthouse earlier this week, officials said.

The alleged incident happened Tuesday around 10 a.m.

Investigators said the woman got on the elevator from the lobby and a man followed behind her.

The woman said the man was armed with scissors and put her in a choke hold. She was "screaming bloody murder" and eventually hit a button to get the elevator to open.

At that time, an attorney and another man got the suspect off the woman. Deputies arrived and took him into custody.

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"I pulled him off of her by his shoulders, then was basically on the ground with him. I put him in a choke hold and just held him there," the attorney said.

Channel 2 Action News has learned 41-year-old Ruben Eric Washington was arrested in connection with the attack. He's in the Fulton County Jail facing aggravated assault and other charges.

Channel 2 Investigative Reporter Mark Winne talked to Washington Friday from jail.

"I really don't even know how to answer your question," Washington said when Winne asked him if he did it.

Washington's demeanor and answers may give insight into the alleged attack.

"I could easily say no, or yes. I haven't been taking my pills," Washington said.

Fulton County Jail Commander Mark Adger said if what Washington said about his meds is true, this case may illustrate why more resources are needed to deal with people with criminal justice issues and mental illness.

Adger said Washington had at least one outstanding warrant from another county.

Cox Media Group