Man jailed for attempting to throw woman onto train tracks – New Eltham

A 24-year-old man has been jailed for more than two years after he tried to drag a young woman onto the tracks at New Eltham station.

 

Following a British Transport Police investigation Matthew Griffin of Russell Close, Bexley pleaded guilty to attempted grievous bodily harm and was jailed for 28 months at Inner London Crown Court today (30 April).

 

He was also handed a five year restraining order.

 

The court heard how on Thursday 26 October last year, Griffin approached a young woman at New Eltham station. When he attempted to engage her in conversation and she refused he became aggressive and threatened to throw her onto the tracks.

 

He repeated the threat before dragging her from behind in an attempt to throw her onto the tracks. Griffin’s attack only ended when a member of the public intervened and the woman managed to slip out of the coat she was wearing.

 

Investigating officer DC Gemma Lee said: “To say this was a terrifying incident is an understatement. The woman was literally fighting for her life as Griffin tried to drag her onto the tracks.

“The impact of this attack has been immeasurable - she has been mentally scarred from what happened and continues to have flashbacks and panic attacks.

“Griffin is a dangerous individual who is now behind bars. It is hoped this will provide some comfort to this brave woman and allow her to begin her recovery.”