Cash flow problems

HARD-up Lorraine Meads could not afford the bus fare to the Cambridge probation office so a report could be prepared on her, magistrates were told. Meads, who had previously admitted charges of racially aggravated threatening behaviour and assaulting a po

HARD-up Lorraine Meads could not afford the bus fare to the Cambridge probation office so a report could be prepared on her, magistrates were told.

Meads, who had previously admitted charges of racially aggravated threatening behaviour and assaulting a police officer, should have visited the probation service on June 20.

"She was without funds, the bus fare was £4.50 and her benefit money did not come through in time," solicitor Michael Judkins told Ely magistrates.

"It was a cash flow problem; the end of the week is the worst time when money is awaited."

Chairman Jane Lewin-Smith asked whether it was possible for Meads to be seen at the probation service office in Ely, but was told all interviews for a pre-sentence report were carried out in Cambridge.

"This not a very satisfactory state of affairs and has led to a delay," complained Mrs Lewin-Smith.

The court adjourned sentencing for a further three weeks so that 41-year-old Meads, of White Hart Lane, Soham, could attend another probation appointment.

Mrs Lewin-Smith warned her: "The court would take an extremely dim view if this was to happen again.