Probation for teen who punched bus driver in face

Tuesday 03 December 2024

A 15-year-old boy who punched a bus driver in the face has been given a six-month probation order.

The Youth Court heard that the teenager, who cannot be named due to his age, boarded the bus while drunk.

Legal adviser Samantha Morris, prosecuting, said he became abusive towards the driver and was told to get off.

She said the boy then demanded his money back and tried to reach into the till.

“The driver took hold of his arm to stop him doing that and the teenager punched him in the face,” she added.

The court also heard that the boy was on probation at the time for a previous conviction of breaking and entering.

Advocate Paul Nicholls, defending, said the teenager wished to apologise to the driver in person.

He added: “He has ridden that bus numerous times since with that same driver, and there was no ill will.

“He knows his actions were wrong.”

The boy told the court: “I’m never going to do it again.”

Magistrate Bridget Shaw imposed a six-month probation order.