Derby Mercury - 27 December 1854

ASSAULT AT SHIRLEY.— James Weston was summoned for assaulting Joseph Murfin, at Shirley, on Friday, the 15th inst.— Complainant stated he was going home about half-past six o'clock on the night mentioned defendant came up to him, seized him by the collar, struck him, knocked him down, and hit him several times with a stick; there was no provocation given.— Three witnesses – Hannah Neil, Maria Woolley and Thomas Ault – also spoke to the assault being committed.— Defendant said that Murfin struck the first bllow, but called no witnesses.— The BENCH, remarking it was a most unprovoked assault, ordered defendant to pay 5s. and 24s. 6d. costs.