Uxbridge Man Pleads Guilty for Spitting at Bus Driver and Police Officer Amid COVID-19 Crisis
Spitting Rampage at Uxbridge Bus Station
William Cawley, 23, from Grove Lane, Uxbridge, pleaded guilty to two counts of common assault after spitting at a bus driver and later a police officer. The shocking incidents unfolded on Monday, 20 April, at around 5.10pm at Uxbridge Bus Station.
Cawley boarded a TfL bus through the wrong door. When the driver asked him to use the middle door—as per new COVID-19 safety measures—Cawley snapped. He spat in the driver’s face before storming off.
Police Chase Ends in Custody and More Assault
Officers patrolling nearby were alerted and quickly spotted Cawley. He ran but was caught after a short foot chase in Cocks Yard. Once in custody, Cawley turned hostile again. He spat at a police officer and threatened him, claiming he was infected with COVID-19. This led to an additional charge of common assault on an emergency worker.
Authorities Crack Down: Zero Tolerance for Abuse
Detective Chief Inspector Fiona Martin said: “Spitting at someone is disgusting at any time. But during the Covid-19 crisis, it’s offensive, reprehensible, and dangerous. Our key workers, including bus drivers, are keeping London moving under incredibly tough conditions. They don’t come to work to be spat at. This behaviour will not be tolerated and will be dealt with severely.”
Siwan Hayward, TfL Director, added: “Spitting is a vile assault that leaves a lasting impact. To think anyone would spit on frontline workers during a national health emergency is shocking. Our bus drivers are heroes supporting NHS staff saving lives. We condemn this incident strongly and will push for the harshest sentence. Safety remains our top priority.”
New Bus Rules Amid Pandemic
From 20 April, London buses have been enforcing middle-door only boarding to protect drivers and passengers during the pandemic. This measure complements improved safety screens and supports social distancing while the city battles coronavirus.
Cawley was remanded and will face sentencing at Uxbridge Magistrates Court on Wednesday, 29 April.
