ROOFER JAILED FOR PUNCHING ELDERLY CHURCH VERGER
A local roofer named John Butler was sentenced to 15 months in prison after engaging in a violent dispute with a 69-year-old verger at St Cuthbert’s Church in Billingham.The altercation was triggered by a conversation about a leaking roof that Butler installed in 2013.
Initially, Butler denied any issues with the roof during the discussion.
Things took a darker turn when he approached the woman’s face, swore at her, and prompted her to slap him.
The situation worsened when Butler backed away, then turned around and punched her in the mouth.
An eyewitness described a 'sickening thud' as the woman fell, hitting her head and suffering severe injuries, including internal bleeding, bruising, and fractured front teeth, which needed dental treatment.
The defense highlighted that Butler had been dealing with health problems such as a blood disorder, pneumonia, and E-coli shortly after the incident, which could have affected his behavior.
The judge, Recorder David Gordon, noted Butler’s remorse but stated clearly, 'there is nothing to justify you punching this elderly lady in the face the way you did.' Residing in Ingleby Barwick, Butler had previously been convicted of dangerous driving and affray in 2010.
The church official condemned the assault as 'wanton and senseless' and emphasized that crimes of violence against individuals will not be tolerated.
