Drunken Father Launches Violent Attack on School Bus After Being Refused Lift
A father has been sentenced after launching a drunken and violent attack on a school bus packed with children in Sittingbourne, Kent. Paul Fuller, 42, left youngsters screaming in terror as he threatened to "smash the driver's f****** head in" before using a brick to shatter a window of the vehicle.
Intoxicated Rage on a Busy Street
The incident occurred on April 22 last year when Fuller, described in court as "extremely intoxicated", wandered into the middle of a busy street and demanded to board the school service operated by Travel Masters. The bus had become stuck in traffic in Sittingbourne, but instead of walking away after being denied a ride, Fuller became violent.
Medway Magistrates' Court heard how the father began punching at the bus' windscreen before escalating his attack. Dashcam footage from a passing car captured the moment Fuller beat at the window multiple times before picking up a brick and smashing the glass.
Children's Terrifying Ordeal
Prosecutor Victoria Aked recounted the "odd" incident to the bench, noting that Fuller had started banging on the closed door while shouting, "Let me on" - despite it being clearly marked as a school bus. She detailed how he then threatened the driver, saying: "I will smash your head in, f*** you and your tattoos."
During what was described as an "aggressive" attack, Fuller also shouted: "You're not going home to your family." Children on the bus could be heard screaming "he's got a brick" as Fuller prepared to smash the window, with pictures showing the shattered glass after his assault.
Driver's Lasting Trauma
The brave driver managed to direct the bus away during the attack, but suffered significant physical and psychological harm. In a victim impact statement, he revealed he had to have glass splinters removed from his leg with tweezers after the incident, and months later, some shards continue to pop out.
The driver, who was already taking medication for anxiety before the attack, said he now looks over his shoulder when out in public, worried he might encounter Fuller again. "It was a school bus, and it was full of children, but he was willing to smash me round the head," he told the court.
Fuller's Remorse and Previous Conviction
Fuller admitted to police that he felt bad about his actions and expressed regret. However, the court heard he had been convicted of criminal damage just one month prior to this incident. A probation officer who interviewed Fuller ahead of the hearing said he had admitted being extremely intoxicated on the day but was now off alcohol after referring himself to a support service.
Fuller told the court he had been struggling due to a relationship breakdown which had led him to drink more. "I've had lots of problems and stress. I lashed out. I've been a fool," he said. "This year, I've been trying to bring it all back together. I am disappointed in myself. I have a son, a mortgage, and I am disappointed and not proud."
Court Sentence and Compensation
Appearing in court last November, Fuller admitted charges of assault and criminal damage. He was handed an 18-week jail sentence, suspended for 12 months, and ordered to carry out 200 hours of unpaid work. Additionally, he must pay a victim surcharge of £154, £85 in court costs, £300 in compensation to the bus driver, and £150 to Travel Masters to repair the damaged window.
Despite the traumatic incident, the heroic bus driver was able to complete his school run after the attack, ensuring the children reached their destinations safely.
