Man Who Assaulted Parking Officer Learns His Fate in Court

Attacker Who Assaulted Parking Officer Faces Court Punishment

A man who attacked a Civil Parking Enforcement Officer in Falmouth after receiving a Penalty Charge Notice has been prosecuted, with Cornwall Council warning that abuse or violence towards staff will not be tolerated.

Assault Following Parking Fine

The incident happened last summer when Luke Pentecost, 32, of Falmouth, became verbally abusive after being issued a ticket for breaching traffic regulations. The situation escalated when Pentecost physically assaulted the officer. Fortunately, the victim did not suffer any significant injuries.

Following an investigation by police, Pentecost was charged with assault. He later pleaded guilty at Truro Magistrates’ Court on 16th January 2025.

Court Sentencing

The court handed Pentecost a 12-month community order, including a 20-day Rehabilitation Activity Requirement and a 120-day Alcohol Abstinence Requirement. He was also ordered to pay:

• £85 in costs to the Crown Prosecution Service
• A £114 surcharge to the court
• £150 in compensation to the victim

Council’s Warning on Violence

Councillor Martyn Alvey, who oversees enforcement at Cornwall Council, condemned the attack. He said:

“This type of behaviour is totally unacceptable. This man’s actions were disgraceful and I’m thankful for the police and the Crown Prosecution Service for investigating and bringing the case to court.

“We will not tolerate any form of abuse, violence or aggression to any of our staff and should incidents like this occur, we will notify the police.

“I hope this case acts as a reminder to others that there will be consequences for this type of behaviour.”

Cornwall Council has reiterated its zero-tolerance approach to threats, abuse, and violence against its staff, stating that all such incidents will be reported to the police.