Jail for man who racially abused a taxi driver and punched him in the head

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A man who racially abused a taxi driver before punching him repeatedly in the head has been jailed.

Jonathan Olley was picked up by the driver in Durham City on December 8 last year and asked to be taken to West Cornforth.

The 38-year-old, who was so drunk the driver had to get him to pay £20 upfront for the journey, became increasingly agitated when he couldn’t find the address.

Olley then began raining punches into the victim’s head, called him racial slurs, and threatened to kill his family.

The victim suffered injuries to his head and jaw as a result of the attack.

In a victim impact statement, he said: “During the incident I felt very scared and was worried that he would not leave the vehicle and continue to assault me.

“After the male exited the taxi I continued to work for approximately an hour and a half, but during this time I was still scared and did not pick up anyone who was drunk.

“I then ended my shift early as I did not feel like I wanted to work anymore due to the assault and fear.”

Olley, of Grisedale Gardens, in Gateshead, was arrested and charged with racially aggravated assault occasioning actual bodily harm.

He admitted the offence, which he committed while already serving a suspended sentence, and was jailed for 80 weeks at Teesside Crown Court on Monday (March 23).

PC 9898 Bolden, from Durham Constabulary, said: “Olley’s behaviour towards the taxi driver, who was simply trying to do his job and provide a service for the community, was absolutely despicable.

“He was left terrified, fearing for his own safety, and unable to call for help due to being in an isolated area. 

“I hope Olley uses his time in prison to reflect on his shameful behaviour and how his actions have affected his victim.   

“Hate crime in any form will not be tolerated and I hope this result sends a clear message that anyone found to be committing such offences in County Durham and Darlington will be brought to justice.”