Thug from Portland appears in court after racist outburst
Patrick Bridgeman spouted racist abuse and attacked a police officer after a fireworks display.
Bridgeman attended the event in Battle, East Sussex, and was seen brandishing a knuckle duster.
He was threatening those around him and said to one person “I will wipe your f****** face off”.
Police arrived, and when arrested, the 29-year-old said he hated working with Jewish and Polish people and later spouted racist abuse at an Asian police officer.
Brighton Magistrates’ Court heard how Bridgeman, of Alma Terrace, Portland, was intoxicated on the night. He later kicked the police officer in custody.
The officer said:
“I was dealing with the man who was racially abusing me, preventing him from harming himself.”
“He continued making racist comments throughout. I have never been subjected to such vile, racist comments by anyone before.”
“It caused me great distress and I was alarmed by his behaviour.”
Bridgeman admitted possessing a knuckle duster, racially aggravated harassment, assaulting a police officer and possessing cannabis.
Josie Sonessa, defending, said Bridgeman was “deeply ashamed” of his conduct and was remorseful.
He was given a 12-week suspended sentence and must pay £300 in compensation to the officer.