Mother and son in Cannock fracas after funeral

A mother and son have been ordered to pay out more than £400 by a court following a fracas which erupted after a family funeral service.

Chelsea Johnson and Justin Darby were at a wake being held at the Pied Piper pub in Cannock when trouble flared up.

Cannock Magistrates Court heard how 20-year-old Darby argued with his brother after leaving the pub and stormed off along Brunswick Road. In anger, he lashed out at a nearby parked car and smashed its windscreen.

Mr David Lees, prosecuting yesterday, said when police arrived they spoke to Darby, of Dibble Close, Willenhall, and arrested him. It was then that his 50-year-old mother got upset and started swearing at them.

"Police asked her to move away as she was abusive. But she shouted more abuse at them," said Mr Lees.

He added that, despite the warnings, she approached the officers twice more, swearing at them and shouting "leave him alone". She was then also arrested.

Mr Lees said alcohol played a big part in both the offences.

Darby admitted the charge of criminal damage to the car, which belonged to an innocent member of the public, causing £119.10 of damage.

Johnson, of Chervil Rise, Wolverhampton, also admitted a charge of using threatening words and behaviour.

Both had previous convictions, with Darby serving a custodial sentence last year for criminal damage.

The court heard how the funeral on July 4 was that of Johnson's brother, Darby's uncle, and tensions had been running high.

Mr Rob Govier, for Darby, said it was an "unfortunate" incident and the day had been "emotionally charged".

"It was a falling out and he lashed out at something. These are the circumstances and these are the consequences," said Mr Govier.

Johnson, who was not represented, said: "It was a mad mistake."

She was ordered to pay the court a total of £155. Darby was ordered to pay the courts £170 and compensation to the victim of £119.10.

By Claire Fry