Jailed For Singing

A noisy neighbour who was singing 1970s hit “Matchstalk Men and Matchstalk Cats and Dogs” day and night, has been jailed for 20 weeks.

19:34 06 July 2015

Council tenant Michael Thornton has been jailed for 20 weeks after making his neighbours life miserable by singing loudly day and night. 

 

Reports said that the 51-year-old would drink before singing on top of his voice along with a selection of Irish rebel songs. He would also invite his friends to his flat where they would shout, swear, and sing till early hours in the morning. 

 

He was found guilty of violating an anti-social behaviour injuction. The city council is also seeking his permanent eviction. 

 

One neighbour, who asked not to be named, said: "It would go on and on and on, he would play it over and over and sing along himself.

 

"At least now we'll have a few weeks of peace and quiet."

 

Sergeant David Lamerton, from the Northfield Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: "Mr Thornton has persistently shown a flagrant disregard for the feelings of his neighbours.

 

"He has been offered help but has declined this and has chosen to continue his selfish behaviour.

"West Midlands Police and Birmingham City Council have worked together to get a court order against him. He has chosen to flout this court order and now faces the consequences."

 

Council cabinet member for community safety James McKay said: "I hope that this prison sentence delivers a clear message to other individuals that Anti-Social Behaviour Injunctions are a serious matter.

 

"We will not hesitate to take enforcement action should it be necessary to protect local residents.

"I congratulate the residents and officers involved with this case for their hard work and courage."