A Burger King employee in York has been sentenced to 16 months in prison after a shocking assault on a customer. The incident, which took place at a branch in Northallerton, escalated into violence, leaving the victim with serious injuries.
Details of the Assault
The altercation began when the customer, who had been drinking, became involved in a dispute with staff. The employee, identified as 28-year-old Jack Simpson, reacted aggressively, punching the victim multiple times in the face. The attack was captured on CCTV, providing clear evidence for prosecutors.
Court Proceedings
At Leeds Crown Court, Simpson pleaded guilty to assault occasioning actual bodily harm. Judge Simon Phillips KC condemned the attack as "unprovoked and brutal," emphasising that such behaviour would not be tolerated in the workplace.
"Fast-food employees are expected to handle difficult situations professionally," Judge Phillips stated. "This was a clear abuse of position and trust."
Impact on the Victim
The victim suffered a fractured eye socket and required hospital treatment. In a victim impact statement, they described ongoing pain and anxiety following the assault.
This case highlights growing concerns about workplace violence in the service industry, particularly in customer-facing roles where tensions can quickly escalate.
