A man threatened a young boy with a knife during an aggressive rampage at a train station.

Jonathan Shotter, 43, caused chaos at a train station on October 29, 2023.

Southampton Crown Court heard how Shotter, of Obelisk Road in Southampton, entered a shop at the station and stole more than £20 worth of food.

He attempted to return a while later but was asked to leave by staff.

Shotter became aggressive towards railway staff, forcing the shop to close its shutters to protect the staff remaining inside.

He went on to shake, punch, and kick the shutter which damaged it.

Shotter then brandished a knife and began to walk around the station and the platforms threatening members of staff and pretending to throw the knife at members of the public.

He directly threatened to stab several members of staff, telling one man he would stab him in the head.

He also raised the knife to the face of a five-year-old boy before going on to shout racially abusive language towards other members of the public, pointing the knife in their direction and threatening them.

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When police officers arrived at Plymouth train station, Shotter placed the knife on the floor and was arrested.

While being searched following his arrest, he headbutted one of the attending officers.

Appearing at court on August 8, Shotter was handed a prison sentence of two years and three months.

He was also made to pay £228 in costs and forfeiture of the knife.

Investigating officer DC Adam Rudling said: “I am pleased with the result in this case. Shotter acted with wanton aggression towards railway staff, police officers, and members of the public.

"Violent and abusive behaviour will not be tolerated anywhere on the railway network.

“I hope that this sentence provides Shotter the opportunity to reflect on his actions and the consequences that follow, and I further hope it acts as a warning to anyone who would seek to threaten, harm, or abuse others.”