Man jailed for threatening members of rail staff and racially abusing police officers – Bristol

A man who verbally abused members of rail staff and racially abused police officers at Bristol Temple Meads station, has been jailed for 28 days, following a British Transport Police (BTP) investigation.

Paul Kent, 50, of Somerset Street, Bristol, was found guilty of two counts of racially aggravated assault and a section 4a public order offence at Bristol Magistrates’ Court on Monday 29 March.

On Friday 26 March at around 2.50pm, Kent became verbally abusive towards two members of GWR staff at Bristol Temple Meads railway station and tried to swing a punch at one of them.

BTP officers arrived at the scene shortly after the incident. When asked for his details, Kent began to hurl racist abuse towards two of the officers. He was arrested at the scene. 

BTP Investigating Officer Andrew Williamson said: “Threatening and racist behaviour on the railway will absolutely not be tolerated under any circumstances.

“Nobody should be afraid of being abused at work, especially in such an appalling manner.

“I am grateful to the courts for the sentence imposed on the defendant and hope it serves as a strong reminder that this type of behaviour will not be tolerated.

If you experience any issues on public transport, contact BTP by texting 61016 or calling 0800 40 50 40 at any time. If you’re in immediate danger, always call 999.