Oldham woman who hurled racial abuse at garage owner has been jailed

Reporter: Jess Reeves
Date published: 29 March 2019


A Oldham-based woman, along with her newphew have been jailed for hurling racial abuse and assaulting a local garage owner.

42 year old Sarah Crone, was driving her Nissan Duke into an industrial estate in Moston when her vehicle was clipped by the rear end of a low loader.

Th local garage owner in his 30's, noticed the lorry was part of his fleet and went out to speak to Crone.

He was then met with a barrage of racial abuse befor ebeing threatened Cron'es nephew would come to the garage and 'sort him out'.

A short time later, 40 year old, John Thornley turned up in his Audi Q7, yielding a pickaxe.

He then struck the man with the weapon, luckily only grazing his neck, but he bore the main brunt of the blow to his collarbone.

When the victim called the police, Thornley tried pleading with him as he fled the scene.

Crone told the repsonding officers that she had been attacked by someone at the garage and therefore asked Thronley to come to her rescue, when asked why he didnt stay at the scene, she told them he was on the school run.

Despite pleading her ignorance, CCTV shown to the jury at Manchester Crown Court, Crown Square influenced their decision to find her guilty of assault and racially aggravated public order. Thornley previously pleaded guilty to the assault. 

On Thursday 28th March, they have both been jailed for more than a year. 

Detective Constable Terry Macmillan of GMP’s City of Manchester Division, said: “While the violence of this incident escalated dramatically and all from a minor collision, the CCTV shows the injuries could have been much more serious. 

“We cannot underestimate the severity of this situation and thankfully he escaped with minor injuries but had he not reacted as quickly, we could have been looking at devastating consequences. 
“Crone exercised her right to a trial and I’m pleased to say that the victim remained strong and resolute in his commitment to see justice done. 

“Today’s sentence sends a strong message that violence is never and will never be tolerated. The consequences of our actions in the heat of the moment can last a lifetime.” 

 


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