Watch more of our videos on Shots!
and live on Freeview channel 276

A stressed Mansfield motorbiker who assaulted a traffic warden after he was ticketed for parking in a disabled space has previous convictions for violence, a court heard.

Dane Wright grabbed the warden from behind after arguing with him on Church Street, on January 20, Mansfield Magistrates’ Court heard.

Lucy Woodcock, prosecuting, said Wright’s victim had to take time off work and felt uncomfortable going into Mansfield town centre as a result.

The court heard Wright, aged 32, has 19 previous convictions for 33 offences, including seven for violence.

Wright, care of Second Avenue, Forest Town, admitted assault by beating.

Mansfield biker endangered kids’ lives during high-speed chase with police

Pari Seeley, mitigating, said Wright attempted to negotiate by saying: “Please have some sympathy, I will move the bike.”

However, the warden refused and the situation became “agitated” when Wright claimed there was no sign to indicate it was a disabled space.

Ms Seeley said: “He admits he went back to confront him. He doesn't blame anyone but himself.”

She said his behaviour stems from an emotionally unstable personality disorder triggered by stress.

He had recently been impacted by harassment and threats at his home and thought he would lose his licence because of the ticket.

Ms Seeley said: “This was the cherry on the top of an awful day.

“He was recently homeless, but is trying to get his life back on track.”

Seeley was given a 12-month community order with a 31-day programme to address thinking skills and 10 rehabilitation days. He was also ordered to pay £100 compensation, a £114 victim surcharge and £85 in court costs.

Speaking after the sentencing, a Nottinghamshire Council highways manager said: “Parking enforcement officers help to keep our roads safe by ensuring people park safely and considerately.

“It’s important that they can do this safely without suffering any verbal or physical abuse.

“Parking enforcement officers do a difficult job and to be subjected to any form of threats or abuse is completely unacceptable and will not be tolerated.

“All officers are equipped with body cameras and any recorded acts of aggression will be shared with the police and prosecution will be sought.”

Mansfield biker assaulted traffic warden after ticket for parking in disabled space