Burnley man racially abused taxi driver

A drunk man who racially abused a taxi driver told police he remembered nothing about it, a court heard.
Burnley Magistrates' CourtBurnley Magistrates' Court
Burnley Magistrates' Court

Burnley magistrates were told how shift worker Jason McGuire also smacked the rear window of Mohammed Shabraiz’s cab in a row over a fare.

The victim, who was left distressed by the 5-50 am trouble, was said to have asked 31-year-old McGuire £7 for a journey which he claimed he normally paid £5 for.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Prosecutor Andrew Robinson told the hearing McGuire seemed angry when Mr Shabraiz asked for £7 upfront.

He began to swear at the taxi driver, racially abused him and then ran at his vehicle and hit the window with his palm.

Mr Robinson went on: “He was interviewed by police. He said he didn’t recall saying the racial comment and couldn’t believe he had done these things, but he has pleaded guilty and accepts the words were said.

“He said he had never been racially abusive before.”

Miss Cathryn Fell (defending) said: “It was certainly something that’s extremely out of character for this defendant. He does wish to apologise to the driver.”

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The defendant, of Oak Street, Burnley, admitted racially aggravated aggravated intentional harassment, alarm or distress, in the town on April 7th.

He was fined £300 and was told to pay £85 costs, £75 compensation and a £30 victim surcharge.