…By Joseph Benjamin for TDPel Media.
A drunk individual, who had attempted to board a train while carrying a crate of Budweiser beer, headbutted a railway worker who intervened.
The assailant, identified as Bernard Hartnett, was deemed too intoxicated to travel and expressed his frustration before launching an attack on the staff member.
British Transport Police (BTP) recently announced that Hartnett, 28 years old, has been sentenced to two years in jail for his violent behavior.
Hartnett, residing in Challis Court, Southampton, pleaded guilty to charges of grievous bodily harm without intent and criminal damage in Portsmouth Magistrates’ Court.
Sentencing and Consequences
Following Hartnett’s failure to appear for his sentencing, an arrest warrant was issued.
He was subsequently apprehended and incarcerated at Portsmouth Crown Court.
Witnesses observed Hartnett entering the Portsmouth and Southsea railway station while visibly unsteady on his feet, carrying the crate of beer.
Railway staff attempted to prevent him from boarding the train, at which point Hartnett became aggressive and headbutted one of the employees, injuring his nose.
Hartnett then forcefully pushed the staff member towards the edge of the platform, causing the victim to fall and sustain a knee injury.
Subsequent Events and Police Intervention
As the injured staff member lay on the platform, Hartnett attempted to punch him.
However, other railway staff quickly intervened and restrained Hartnett until the arrival of police officers.
When the officers approached Hartnett, he resisted arrest and bit into one of their police radios, refusing to let go.
Eventually, the radio was freed, but not before a part of it snapped off, leaving wires hanging from Hartnett’s mouth.
The injured staff member was taken to a nearby hospital, where he underwent surgery to repair a ruptured tendon in his knee.
Subsequently, he had to wear a supportive leg brace for three months to aid in his recovery.
Law Enforcement’s Response and Message to the Public
Detective Constable Phil James, the lead investigator in the case, condemned Hartnett’s actions as appalling.
He emphasized that no one should be subjected to violence or intimidation while simply doing their job.
The police and authorities stand in support of railway workers, ensuring that those who cause them harm face the appropriate consequences.
Detective Constable James expressed hope that the substantial prison sentence imposed on Hartnett would provide some solace to the victim.
In conclusion, the British Transport Police urged witnesses to report any incidents of violence or harassment directed at rail staff or passengers by texting 61016.
They emphasized their zero-tolerance policy toward such offenses and their commitment to taking swift action in response to such incidents.
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