On Wednesday, 21 December, Jake Boothman, a 29-year-old man from Lovat Road in Preston, appeared in court to plead guilty to charges of assault and threatening behavior. The incident took place on Tuesday, 13 December, when the victim and his partner were waiting for a taxi at Preston station around 1:15am.
As they waited, Boothman approached them and made inappropriate comments towards the victim’s partner. Despite being asked to leave them alone, Boothman persisted and became abusive. The victim and his partner, who pointed out that the victim was blind and using a white cane, tried to block Boothman’s advances. However, when the victim reached out to push Boothman away, Boothman responded by pushing the victim and knocking his glasses off.
Investigating officer PC Andy Webb described the incident as “truly frightening” for the victim and his partner, especially because they were targeted due to the victim’s disability. Boothman’s refusal to leave them alone and his intimidating behavior demonstrated his intention to upset and intimidate the couple.
Boothman was sentenced to jail by Preston Magistrates’ Court on the same day he pleaded guilty. PC Webb stated that Boothman should be ashamed of his actions and that the sentence will give him the opportunity to reflect on his behavior.