Father and son fined for abusive behaviour towards train staff after football match
Brendan and Ryan McCabe's actions during journey lead to court penalties
Brendan McCabe and his son, Ryan McCabe, have been fined following their abusive conduct towards train staff on a journey home from watching football in Carlisle.
The pair, both from Edinburgh, appeared in Carlisle Magistrates’ Court after they subjected two TransPennine Express train staff members to verbal abuse.
The incident occurred on 28th February when they boarded a train at Preston following a Premier League match between West Ham and Liverpool.
Ryan became frustrated trying to navigate past a refreshment trolley, leading to both McCabes hurling insults at train staff and causing discomfort to nearby passengers.
Brendan McCabe notably intensified the disruption by playing music with explicit lyrics, disturbing an elderly couple.
The male staff member reported feeling threatened, while his co-worker expressed ongoing anxiety due to the encounter.
After admitting to using threatening language, the McCabes were each fined ÂŁ200 and ordered to pay ÂŁ250 in compensation to the staff members, along with additional court costs.
Lead magistrate Nick Swinscoe condemned their behaviour, noting the intimidation felt by young and elderly witnesses present.
The McCabes’ defence solicitor described the incident as out of character, stating their remorse for the actions taken.