Northolt Man Convicted of Racially Abusing Bus Driver
Spat at man after being denied boarding because he couldn't pay his fare
Mongan's tirade went viral on social media. Picture: X
August 10, 2024
A 39-year-old man from Northolt could be facing a jail sentence after being convicted of shouting racial abuse and spitting at a bus driver.
Michael Mongan of Castle Road pleaded guilty of two charges relating to an incident which was widely shared on social media.
He had been refused permission to board a bus at Coldharbour Lane in Hayes shortly before 12.25hrs on Wednesday, 7 August. As a result he launched a string of Islamophobic abuse at the driver, threatened him, spat at him and banged on the glass partition.
When the clip went viral, Mongan died his hair in an attempt to hide his identity but he was identified and arrested on Friday, 9 August and charged with a racially aggravated public order offence and criminal damage.
He pleaded guilty to both charges at Uxbridge Magistrates' Court on Saturday, 10 August and was remanded in custody for sentencing at the same court on Tuesday, 13 August. The judge’s decision not to release him is understood to indicate that a jail sentence is being considered.
Mongan died his hair in an attempt to evade arrest. Picture: Met Police
Detective Inspector Jonathan Potter, of the Roads and Transport Policing Command, said:, "The bus driver who was racially abuse and spat at by Michael Mongan was simply doing his job. He and all other staff who work across London's transport network have a right to do so in safety, free from unacceptable threats and intimidation.
"I hope the fast response from our officers sends a clear message that we will act to hold those who behave in this way to account.
"I'm glad Mongan has been swiftly brought to justice and will now face the consequences of his actions."
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