Three refuse collectors from Stoke-on-Trent have been left profoundly impacted after a violent road rage incident that occurred while they were on duty. The event unfolded on a day that began like any other but quickly escalated into a chaotic scene of aggression and weaponry during their rounds in Birches Head, where a near-miss involving a bin wagon and a car triggered a series of violent confrontations.
The situation deteriorated when a group, comprising three men and one youth, confronted the refuse collectors with an array of weapons, including a sledgehammer, axes, poles, and even a firearm, resulting in significant injuries and trauma for the victims. The Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court heard moving statements from the affected workers, detailing the emotional and physical toll of the attack, which has ultimately forced them to resign from their positions at Stoke-on-Trent City Council.
One of the victims, who had worked for the council for 28 years, described his ongoing trauma, admitting that he felt scared to return to work and has struggled with anxiety and discomfort in daily life. He reported suffering from two slits to his head due to the incident and mentioned a decline in his mental health, saying, “I just want to forget about this brutal attack. We were just doing our job.” His family's health and wellbeing have also been affected, with his wife reporting that he has begun to drink more and the family has experienced depression and sleepless nights.
Another victim, with 38 years of service, expressed the premeditated nature of the attack, revealing that he was threatened at gunpoint, although he clarified that it may have been a blank or that the assailant missed him. He conveyed the long-lasting psychological effects he has faced since the incident, including a diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and ongoing anxiety, leaving him unable to continue working. “Are these men capable of doing this again? Could somebody die next time?” he questioned.
The assailants, whose actions were described in court as shocking and unprovoked, received lengthy prison sentences. Joe Corden, 29, was sentenced to six years and eight months for multiple charges, including assault and possession of an offensive weapon. Jack Spackman, 25, received five years and six months for his role in the violence, while Kyle Worthington, 21, was sentenced to six years for conspiring to cause grievous bodily harm and possessing a firearm.
Speaking after the sentencing, Stoke-on-Trent City Council leader Jane Ashworth commented on the nature of the attacks, stating: “These were shocking and completely unprovoked attacks on hard-working crews. We are thankful justice has been served.” Detective Inspector Andy Bryan from Staffordshire Police also condemned the assaults, highlighting that they took place in broad daylight, further underlining the recklessness of the attackers.
As a result of the violence, the refuse collectors face ongoing challenges with their mental health and financial security, effectively altering the course of their lives and careers. The families of these victims continue to grapple with the aftermath of this harrowing incident, marking a severe disruption to their everyday lives.
Source: Noah Wire Services