A HYNDBURN man who torched his sister-in-law and mother’s car has avoided a lengthy jail term so he can receive help with his mental health problems.

Mohammed Akram, 41, had not been taking his anti-psychotic medication when he carried out two arson attacks around the New Year period, Preston Crown Court was told.

MORE TOP STORIES:

Eyewitnesses say Akram looked like ‘a man possessed’ as he set one of the fires, the court was told.

He also vandalised his brother-in-law’s taxi, causing around £750 in damage and lost work.

Akram, of Clement Street, Accrington, admitted two offences of arson and one charge of criminal damage.

Passing sentence, Judge Jonathan Gibson said the defendant had been on remand since the start of January, the equivalent to a 14-month jail sentence.

And if he was given an appropriate sentence for all three offences, it was likely he would only remain in custody for a short period, the judge told the court. Akram, who has a previous conviction for wounding, was given a three-year community order, including probation supervision, and warned if he did not comply he would be at risk of a longer prison term.

The court heard Akram, after damaging his brother-in-law’s taxi, by smashing windows, had set his sister-in-law’s vehicle alight in the early hours, causing extensive damage.

Days later he went to his parents’ home, demanding money. He was offered £20 but told his parents he wanted £100 and threatened to burn down their house and car before leaving. The emergency services were alerted later when their car was also found ablaze.

Joe Boyd, defending, said: “It is possible to minimise the future risk by ensuring his compliance with taking his prescribed medication.”