A housewife turned a flower-arranging class into violent chaos after a foul-mouthed row about her floral display. Lorraine Jae, 51, punched and threw a drink over fellow student Tracey Musker during a college classroom meltdown following a tutor's criticism of her coursework.
Liverpool Magistrates' Court heard other students at the floristry lesson at St Helens College in Merseyside watched on in shock as Jae told Miss Musker to "shut the f..k" up when told to stop being "childish". But when Miss Musker laughed off the abuse, Jae ran at her, punched her in the face, picked up a protein drink carton and threw it at her before she later stormed out.
Court hearing and sentence
Miss Musker suffered bruises and a cut to her chin. Last week Jae, of Leigh, Greater Manchester, admitted assault by beating and was ordered to pay Miss Musker £200 in compensation. She was also ordered to pay £505 in fines and costs. Her husband was in court to support her.
Sentencing Jae, District Judge James Clarke told her: "This was a bad situation that went in the wrong direction. It is not a reflection of your personality."
Incident details
The incident occurred last December 11th when the pair were in a classroom getting feedback about their floristry diploma coursework thought to involve creating Christmas wreaths made from holly, ivy and pine cones.
Prosecutor Tony Carey said: "The defendant became involved in an argument with the course tutor. Miss Musker attempted to calm the situation but the defendant told her to ‘Shut the f*** up’.
"Miss Musker told the defendant not to speak to her in that manner and the defendant then began picking up her belongings. But as she went to collect her coat she directed further verbal abuse at Miss Musker.
"Miss Musker laughed it off but while the victim was still sitting at her desk the defendant ran over to her and punched her in the face.
"When Miss Musker stood up the defendant picked up a full protein drink from the victim’s desk and threw it at her.
"Another student intervened and then the defendant ran out of the classroom. Consequently the defendant was suspended from her college course.
"Miss Musker sustained a bruised and cut chin and a mark on her lip. She was given first aid at the scene but did not seek hospital treatment."
Defence statement
The court heard Jae, who is currently waiting for a hip operation, had no previous convictions. Her lawyer Helen Clarke said: "The argument involving the course tutor related to a dispute about her course work which the defendant thought she had done to a satisfactory standard. Miss Musker then got involved.
"Clearly it was a short-lived matter and a heat of the moment reaction when the defendant felt extremely frustrated.
"She had been studying the course for some time, it had not been the best experience and she had some problems along the way. Nevertheless she persevered hoping to achieve a qualification.
"Clearly this happened out of character and she has learnt her lesson. She is apologetic to Miss Musker."
