This is the shocking moment a fare dodger punched a member of rail staff after they tried to stop him jumpint the barriers at a train station.
Michael Lucas attempted to get through the barriers at Wigan Wallgate train station without a ticket on February 6 this year. After being denied and challenged by staff, he left.
But British Transport Police said the 32-year-old returned later that evening and forced himself through the barriers. CCTV showed him grabbing a 55-year-old member of staff by the throat.
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Lucas then violently punched the man to the ground, leaving him with a fractured eye socket, cheekbone and jaw. After the attack, he fled the station.
He dropped his phone and driving licence at the scene, which were then seized by officers. Police were able to track him down and he was arrested three days later.
Lucas, of Bath Street, Southport, was jailed for 28 months at Bolton Crown Court on Monday (October 24) after pleading guilty to grievous bodily harm without intent.
Officers have now released video footage of the "vicious and unprovoked" attack.
BTP 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 travelling 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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