Taxi row man "lost it
A PASSENGER ripped out a taxi's radio system after a row with the driver, a court heard.
Wakefield Magistrates heard how window cleaner David Walker, 30, and his girlfriend were returning from a night out in Wakefield city centre oValentine's Day.
They agreed a fee of £15 beforehand with the taxi driver for taking them to Station Road in Ryhill but he later told them he'd charge what was on the meter.
The couple asked why it was more expensive than normal and an argument ensued. It was alleged the taxi driver became aggressive and grabbed hold of Mr Walker's girlfriend causing bruising.
Walker told the taxi driver to leave her alone and pushed him away. Punches were thrown by both men.
The court heard Walker flew into something of a rage and took his frustration out on the car.
Prosecutor Diane Gomersall said Walker "lost it". He damaged the car by kicking the door, smashing the window and ripping the radio system out.
The victim requested £2,000 to pay for repairs and for a hire car.
Walker, of Felkirk Drive, Ryhill, admitted criminal damage.
Rob Fones, mitigating, said there was a certain amount of provocation from the taxi driver who had effectively assaulted Mr Walker's girlfriend and then started swinging punches at Mr Walker.
He said his client was a man of previous good character, a family man and a self-employed window cleaner.
Walker was sentenced to a 12-month conditional discharge and ordered to pay £1,500 in compensation.
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