Racist Rage in Bridport: Man Jailed for Spitting at Visiting Family
Daniel Lavery, 39, from South Walk, Bridport, has been sentenced to 14 weeks in prison after hurling racial abuse and spitting at a visiting family outside Waitrose, Weymouth Magistrates’ Court heard.
Disgusting Attack Outside Waitrose
The shocking incident took place at 2:35pm on Friday, 11 September 2020. A Filipino family, normally from Reading, were visiting Bridport and standing outside Waitrose on West Street when Lavery targeted them. He shouted vile racial slurs, then chewed crisps and spat them in the family’s direction before walking off.
Police were called immediately, and officers swiftly arrested Lavery. When questioned, he claimed he couldn’t recall his actions due to heavy intoxication.
Community Outraged by Hate Crime
“This was an extremely distressing incident for the victims who came to visit Bridport and experience what the town has to offer,” said Neighbourhood Inspector Darren Stanton of West Dorset Police.
“Their day was ruined by the small-minded actions of one individual, leaving them shocked, angry and upset. Dorset Police is committed to tackling hate crime and ensuring offenders like Daniel Lavery face justice.”
The Dorset Race Equality Council condemned the attack, noting the family was enjoying a peaceful holiday and never expected to face verbal abuse and spitting during a pandemic.
“If we want Dorset to be prejudice-free, strong messages must be sent that hate crimes will not be tolerated,” the council said.
Bridport Stands United Against Hate
Cllr Dave Rickard, Leader of Bridport Town Council, expressed deep shock and disgust:
“This incident was a disgrace and does not represent the tolerant and inclusive Bridport we love. We pride ourselves on welcoming visitors and being England’s first ‘Rights Respecting Town.’ We thank police for their swift and effective action.”
Lavery’s prison term sends a clear warning: hate crimes will be met with serious consequences across Dorset.
