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Press Release

Three people pay price for offensive language

05/05/06

Camden council is cracking down on members of the public who feel it is all right to make offensive comments, racist remarks and generally bad mouth any of its staff. Recently it has successfully prosecuted three people who went over the top in terms of acceptable language.

The most recent prosecution was secured on 27 April. Victor Martins, of 13 Ely Close, Erith, Kent, was found guilty of one count of sending a grossly offensive letter ('Jesus is dead and you will be too') on 6 July 2005 and one count of making a grossly offensive phone call ('I hope the terrorists blow you up') on 11 July 2005. The latter call was not only offensive but in very poor taste considering the events four days earlier. He was conditionally discharged for 12 months and ordered to pay £100 costs.

On 18 April Marshad Zargari, of 95 Dollis Park, N3 was also found guilty after trial of making a grossly offensive phone call; alluding to the colour of an officer’s skin as well as that person’s parentage. The call was made and taped on 3 October 2005. She was fined £100 and ordered to pay £300 costs.

The first successful prosecution was on 3 February this year when Michael Crockett, of 68A Park Rd, N8, pleaded guilty to making a grossly offensive phone call on 21October 2005. He was fined £250 and ordered to pay £200 costs. All three cases were heard at Highbury Corner Magistrates’ Court.

Alex Williams, Assistant Director for Street Management said: “Unfortunately some people consider it acceptable to casually descend into racist and offensive language. Our work to prosecute such people should make it crystal clear that Camden will not tolerate this. I would advise would-be callers to think twice before using language meant to cause offence. We record all phone conversations and will take action against people using racist and offensive language.”

Camden council expects the highest standards of customer care from its own staff. If a member of staff is rude, unhelpful or abusive then the matter should be reported to the council’s central complaints unit: 020 7974 5644 or email complaints@camden.gov.uk.



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Camden Council

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