A man has admitted a serious arson — after being arrested for “frightening” conduct in front of members of the public as he waited to appear in front of a judge.
James Anthony Fargher, 32, attended Carlisle Crown Court today to face a charge of arson.
But Fargher, formerly of The Sands, Appleby, was detained by police while waiting for his case to be called on.
He had walked up and down the concourse outside criminal courtrooms, loudly singing football songs and chanting in front of shocked onlookers.
After speaking to his barrister, Fargher was brought into the court dock wearing handcuffs. Addressing the judge, Recorder Philip Grundy, his counsel Kim Whittlestone said the defendant had earlier arrived at court “extremely anxious”.
“It was extremely busy on the corridor. There were probably more then usual members of the public sitting in a line. That anxiety got the better of him,” she said. “He didn’t know how to cope with that and he apologises to this court, through me.”
Recorder Grundy accepted that apology from Fargher, who then pleaded guilty to an offence of arson being reckless as to whether property would be destroyed or damaged. This occurred at a flat inside an address on The Sands, in Appleby, on October 21 2020.
The court heard that for around 10 weeks Fargher had been residing at supported accommodation in Lancashire. He spent much of his time mixing with other residents inside premises which was locked and secure and, said Miss Whittlestone, was receiving the support he needed.
He was compliant with medication although one psychotic drug he required was not currently available through the mental health services.
Miss Whittlestone asked for the probation service to prepare a pre-sentence report.
Recorder Grundy adjourned Fargher’s case until 26th November but called his arson offence “serious”. “A PSR is ordered which will cover all options, including a custodial sentence,” said the judge.
He described the defendant’s conduct outside court as a frightening episode for the public — “seeing an individual implode and explode, for whatever reason.”
“You behaved in a criminal fashion. That is a contempt of court. You apologise through your counsel. I accept that apology,” said Recorder Grundy.
Fargher was granted bail until the next hearing although strict conditions were imposed by the judge.
