A RESIDENT in a mental health rehabilitation unit assaulted two members of staff because they didn’t give him money when he asked for it.

Blackburn magistrates heard Michael Burke had money in his account but the staff were concerned because he had been given £1,200 in the weeks before the incident.

The court was told at the time of the incident Burke was already facing a charge of assaulting another member of staff by throwing a mobile phone at her.

Burke, 24, of Pathways North West Ltd, Whalley Road, Accrington, pleaded guilty to three charges of assault and one of damaging a plant pot and a cup. He was ordered to pay £100 compensation to each of the assault victims and £17 for the damaged items.

Alex Mann, prosecuting, said the defendant had asked for money but the member of staff was aware he had been given a lot of money recently. She went to the office to check with another member of staff and Burke started shouting that he wanted his money.

He pushed both women and when one shouted at him to go back to his room he kicked over a table.

Jonathan Taylor, defending, said the sentencing options were limited by his client’s mental health needs.

“The night he has spent in the cells he found very unpleasant and that will serve as a reminder to him,” said Mr Taylor. “He enjoys living where he lives and realises that could be taken away from him if he is not careful.”