A man has been jailed for six months after launching a racist tirade at a Metro worker in Newcastle city centre. James Lee, 23, of Jarrow, admitted racially aggravated harassment, alarm or distress following the incident on July 5.
The court heard that Lee was drinking alcohol on the Metro at Monument when a worker asked him to stop, as it is against the by-laws. Lee became abusive, making offensive comments about the worker and his family having bombs, and stating: 'I’m white, you are black, this is England, my country.' He then spat at the worker, with saliva landing on his jacket.
Passengers on the train expressed disgust at Lee's behaviour and applauded staff when the train arrived at Central Station. The victim said he encounters racism periodically but this incident 'went far beyond' anything he had experienced before.
Lee, who has 61 previous convictions, claimed his actions were influenced by alcohol and medication. Recorder William Lowe QC described his behaviour as 'vile and offensive' and 'quite clearly expressed racism'.
