Yob jailed for racially abusing women

By Staff Reporter

Last updated 09:17, Saturday, 24 May 2008

A RACIST who hurled “revolting” abuse at two Nigerian women in the street in Carlisle has been jailed for a year.

Judge Batty: ‘Racism in Carlisle will not be tolerated’

Drunken yob James Joseph Lockey, 22, shouted racist insults at the women after confronting them on London Road in the afternoon, a court heard.

Lockey, of Borland Avenue, Botcherby, even carried on shouting abuse while one of the women was on her mobile phone to police.

Carlisle Crown Court was told this woman, a 37-year-old, was so shocked she had since even considered quitting the country.

Judge Paul Batty QC, sentencing, described Lockey’s behaviour as an “outrageous offence”. Lockey admitted a charge of causing racially aggravated fear of violence.

Jeremy Grout-Smith, prosecuting, said the women were walking along London Road on October 3 last year when two men, including Lockey, approached them.

The 37-year-old was prompted to try to phone the police and Lockey attempted to grab her mobile off her.

He then shouted racist abuse. The other man walked away.

Mr Grout-Smith said the women also walked away but Lockey ran towards the 37-year-old, continuing to shout insults. He also tried to grab her bags.

Greg Hoare, defending, said: “He accepts the disgraceful nature of his conduct.”

Judge Batty added: “You vilified them by calling them the most revolting of racist names.

“Racism in the city of Carlisle will simply not be tolerated by the courts.”