Man sentenced for violent train attack in South Cumbria
Benjamin Nessling has been handed a fine, community service and a suspended prison sentence
Last updated 31st Mar 2023
A man from Ambleside who attacked a stranger on a train to Grange-over-Sands has avoided jail.
Benjamin Nessling left his victim with a number of injuries when it happened in February last year.
The 32 year old from Far Sawry's been fined and handed community service and a suspended prison sentence.
The court heard how on Sunday 20 February 2022 at around 8pm the victim, a 26-year-old man, made his way to the train toilet.
He was followed by Nessling who forced his way into the toilet while the victim was inside with the door closing behind him.
When the toilet door reopened around two minutes later Nessling was seen to repeatedly punch the victim to the head. When the victim fell to the floor Nessling continued his attack, kicking him and stamping on his head, leaving the victim unconscious.
A female passenger who witnessed the attack managed to intervene resulting in Nessling returning to his seat.
The victim was taken to hospital with a burst blood vessel in his eye, a black eye and swollen head.
Investigating officer PC Ben Griffiths from British Transport Police said:
"This was a horrific and unprovoked attack.
"I would like to commend the brave actions of the witness who intervened and potentially prevented the victim from suffering further injury.
"So violent was Nessling's attack that she was left shaken and in tears by what she witnessed and still has nightmares about the incident.
"Behaviour like this is abhorrent and we will do everything in our power to bring those responsible before the courts.”