Wigan: Man punches rail staff after trying to avoid train fare

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This is the shocking moment a thug punched a member of staff at a railway station as he tried to avoid paying for a ticket.

Michael Lucas, 32, was caught on CCTV at Wigan Wallgate station in Greater Manchester as he approached gate line staff on duty and asked to be let through the barriers without a ticket.

Lucas’s request was denied and, after a brief argument with the staff, he left the station only to return later the same evening again wishing to travel without a ticket. He then forced himself through the ticket barriers and grabbed a member of rail staff by the throat.

The yob then let go of the victim and punched him in the face, causing him to fall to the ground. The victim suffered fractures to his eye socket, cheekbone and jaw from the attack, Liverpool Echo reports.

Lucas was jailed for 28 months on Monday after admitting grievous bodily harm without intent.

Bolton Crown Court heard the thug was caught by British Transport Police after he dropped his mobile phone and driving license running from the attack on Sunday, February 6.

Lucas, from Southport, Merseyside, committed a “particularly vicious” attack, police said.

British Transport Police Detective Sergeant Stephen Kite said: “This was a particularly vicious and unprovoked attack on a member of rail staff and I’m pleased Lucas has been served a lengthy spell behind bars. The safety of those traveling and working on the rail network is our utmost priority, and no one should be subjected to such barbaric violence for simply doing their job.

“I hope this result serves as a warning to anyone who commits a violent crime on the railway – we will catch you and bring you to justice. If you’re a victim of, or witness to, violence on the railway, I urge you to report it to us either by texting 61016 or calling 0800 40 50 40. In an emergency, always dial 999.”

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