Woman turned to violence on taxi journey

A boozed-up woman who punched a passenger in the face during a taxi journey has been fined.

Elizabeth Morton, 54, unemployed, of Elswick Drive in Caldercruix, pled guilty to pinning a woman to the floor inside a moving taxi and punching her on the head and body to her permanent disfigurement.

Prosecutor Roslyn O’Hara told Airdrie Sheriff Court last week: “She had been at a christening in the Pollokshaws area of Glasgow.

“They went back to a family house to continue the celebrations. It was decided to get the accused home as she had too much to drink.

“A taxi was ordered and she sat in the rear of the car.

“Morton took exception to being taken home first and was told to calm down. She then punched one of the passengers on the head and face.

“The driver stopped the car and Morton was removed.

“Police were contacted. She was traced to her home and cautioned and charged.”

Defence lawyer Ceri Evans said: “This was a wholly unsavoury incident which was completely out of character.

“She has no previous convictions.

“She is thoroughly ashamed and embarrassed and very remorseful for her actions.

“She is very well aware of the options open to the court.

“She would comply with a community-based disposal and is willing to pay a compensation order.”

Sheriff Fergus Thomson told Morton: “This is your first time before a court and I sincerely hope it is a one off.”

She was ordered to pay the fine at £20 per week.