A police officer was subjected to racial abuse from a drunken man following an incident at a McDonald’s in Birmingham, a court heard. John Herbert, 42, hurled offensive language at the officer while being taken into custody, Birmingham Magistrates' Court was told on August 17.
Prosecutor Ms Mehnaz Mallik explained that during transportation to the police station on 26 December 2025, Herbert called the officer a “f****** little Asian p****” and made several other racial remarks and threats of violence towards officers. The officer, who has Pakistani heritage, was in the vehicle with Herbert at the time of the verbal attack.
Ms Mallik read from the officer’s victim statement, describing the comments as “disgusting” and stating that Herbert’s behaviour was not in keeping with good social values.
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Defence lawyer Mr Ian Paterson told the court that Herbert had consumed too much alcohol prior to the incident. He said Herbert, who had been out with his father and friends, was attempting to keep pace with drinking but seldom drinks frequently, though he admitted to occasional binge drinking such as on this occasion.
Mr Paterson outlined that on Boxing Day, Herbert was on his way home after collecting food when a disagreement occurred at McDonald’s, resulting in police being called. At the time of his arrest, Herbert believed others were to blame.
Expressing remorse, Herbert told police during interview that he was shocked and astonished by his conduct, stating it was not how he usually behaves.
The defence also brought attention to Herbert’s struggles with mental health, including anxiety and depression.
Herbert, who lives on Irwin Avenue in Rednal and works as a painter and decorator, was sentenced to an 18-month community order. The order includes 200 hours of unpaid work, 20 rehabilitation activity requirement days, and 75 days subject to an alcohol abstinence and monitoring requirement. He was also ordered to pay £85 in court costs, a £114 victim surcharge, and £50 compensation to the assaulted officer.