Uxbridge Magistrates Court has found Ms Keia Williamson guilty of common assault following verbally abusing and beating two Transport for London (TfL) Transport, Support and Enforcement Officers.
Ms Williamson was sentenced to a 12-month community order along with 35 rehabilitation activity requirement days, court costs, victim surcharge and compensation payable to the victims for an amount of £280, along with now holding a criminal record.
The incident took place in December 2020 as the two TfL team members asked the offender to comply with face-covering rules, which at the time were a requirement by law.
Ms Williamson became verbally abusive and once informed that she was refused travel, physically assaulted the TfL officers with British Transport Police (BTP) arresting and removing her from the station.
TfL will always look to bring offenders to justice and, where possible, will use the evidence available from body-worn cameras as was used to help successfully secure a conviction in this case. The footage captured demonstrates the professionalism of the TfL officer on the day despite the unacceptable behaviour of the offender.
A trial between BTP and Cambridge University demonstrated a reduction of 47% in incidents of violence and aggression towards TfL staff members due to the use of body-worn cameras.
Since late 2020, 4,500 body-worn cameras have been in use throughout the TfL network in a bid to reduce workplace violence.
TfL still requires the wearing of face-coverings on all services unless an exemption applies.
Mandy McGregor, Head of Transport Policing and Community Safety, said:
“Our staff have the right to do their job without fear or intimidation and we do not tolerate any violence, aggression or threatening behaviour towards them. This was an appalling act of violence against two members of staff who were simply trying to do their jobs and we're pleased that the offender has been brought to justice. Body-worn video footage continues to provide vital evidence to the police and serves as a powerful deterrent to those who intend on abusing our staff.”
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