CORNWALL Council has issued a strong warning that abuse or violence towards staff will not be tolerated after a civil parking enforcement officer was assaulted last summer.

The officer was attacked after issuing a Penalty Charge Notice to a driver who had parked in breach of traffic regulations.

Luke Pentecost, of Falmouth, became verbally abusive before physically assaulting the officer. Fortunately, there were no significant injuries.

The incident was investigated by police and Pentecost, aged 32, was later charged with assault.

After pleading guilty to the offence at Truro Magistrates’ Court on January 16, 2025, Pentecost was given a community order for 12 months, a Rehabilitation Activity Requirement for 20 days and an Alcohol Abstinence Requirement for 120 days.

He was ordered to pay costs of £85 to the Crown Prosecution Service and a surcharge of £114 to the court. In addition, the court ordered that he pays compensation of £150 to the victim.

Councillor Martyn Alvey, portfolio holder with responsibility for enforcement at Cornwall Council, said: “This type of behaviour is totally unacceptable. This man’s actions were disgraceful and I’m thankful for the police and the Crown Prosecution Service for investigating and bringing the case to court.

“We will not tolerate any form of abuse, violence or aggression to any of our staff and should incidents like this occur, we will notify the police.

“I hope this case acts as a reminder to others that there will be consequences for this type of behaviour.”