An angry Uber customer who turned violent and pulled out an eight-inch knife during a dispute has been jailed. Karl Glendenning, 29, of Woodleigh View, Kenton, Newcastle, pleaded guilty to robbery, having a bladed article, racially aggravated harassment, and assaulting an emergency worker.
Dispute Over Address and Payment
Newcastle Crown Court heard that on February 17, Glendenning was picked up by an Uber driver. A dispute arose over whether the driver had taken him to the correct address and whether Glendenning could pay by cash. Rather than resolving the matter amicably, Glendenning punched the driver in the jaw and then pulled out a knife with an eight-inch blade.
Fearing further attack, the driver got out of the car. Glendenning then moved from the back seat to the driver's seat and swiped the knife towards the driver's abdomen. The driver managed to jump out of the way. Glendenning then drove off, running over the driver's phone in the process.
Racial Abuse and Assault on Police
The court heard that Glendenning also racially insulted the victim and threw a bottle at him, which missed. The driver suffered financial loss as a result of the attack. A security system on the car prevented Glendenning from driving far. He later spat at a police officer, but missed.
Glendenning has previous convictions related to weapons, and the judge described him as a dangerous offender. He was sentenced to four years and four months in prison, with an extended licence period of two years. A restraining order was also issued in respect of the victim.
Mitigation and Background
In mitigation, the court heard that Glendenning is a changing man now that he has become a father. He has a trusted job in prison, has recognized his drug problem and is getting help, is distancing himself from bad influences, and wants to find employment upon release.
