Jail for trio who attacked couple in their own home (From Hampshire Chronicle)

Jail for trio who attacked couple in their own home

9:34am Friday 3rd July 2009 in

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A WINCHESTER mother has been jailed after forcing her way into a city centre home and attacking a married couple.

Mum of three, Colleen Lake, 37, Gary McEvoy, 38, and Steven Meritt, 43, were arrested after they smashed their way into their victim’s flat in King Alfred Place on September 4 last year.

Winchester Crown Court heard how the attack had been triggered by an incident earlier that day when Lake was headbutted by her victim following an argument at a city pub.

But later that day, the trio went to the victim’s home, where McEvoy smashed a door before unbolting it from the inside.

Fearing for their safety, the couple barricaded themselves in their bedroom, but Meritt shoulder- barged the door open.

Edward Phillips, prosecuting, said: “Michael Laverty bolted the door and they retreated to the bedroom of the flat. They placed the bed against the door, anticipating there might be an attempt to break into the room.

“Shortly after that, violence was inflicted on both of them, but rather more on Mr Laverty, who was subjected to punches and kicks. While this was going on, neighbours became concerned by glass smashing, swearing and screaming.”

The court heard how Meritt had kicked Mr Laverty several times with steel toe-capped boots. Shortly afterwards, neighbours called the police, who found the victims had suffered cuts and bruising. All three pleaded guilty to affray.

Judge Mr Justice Butterfield, said: “This was a disgraceful episode following an unpleasant incident in Winchester where Lake had been assaulted by her victim.

“They were so frightened they retreated to their bedroom and barricaded themselves in. Lake and McEvoy then forced their way into that bedroom and assaulted Mr and Mrs Laverty, causing them both serious injuries.

“To force your way into somebody else’s home is extraordinarily serious. You can’t be permitted to break into people’s houses, assault them and expect the courts to allow that sort of conduct to take place.”

Lake, of Cromwell Road, Stanmore, who had previous convictions for assault, and McEvoy, of Milner Place, Stanmore, were jailed for nine months each.

Meritt, of Stuart Crescent, also from Stanmore, was jailed for six months.