Student Sam Duffy | Photo: Facebook/Sam Duffy
Sam Duffy, a 20-year-old London student, was allegedly punched in the face at a pub near his home in Cricklewood.
He was eating alone when he heard other patrons, a man and two women, making racist and homophobic remarks. By the end of Duffy’s time at the pub, he reportedly faced both physical violence and discriminatory tirades.
Duffy, who was wearing an LGBTI wristband while eating, told an employee about the trio’s comments.
That’s when Duffy claims the man began targeting him directly, saying things like ‘all the gays are nonces’. Nonces is a UK slang term, typically associated with pedophiles.
The man ended up sitting down at Duffy’s table and reportedly said: ‘Give me one good reason why I shouldn’t punch you.’ He then punched him, according to Duffy.
‘The whole incident has left me feeling incredibly vulnerable,’ Duffy said.
He left with a black, swollen eye and reported the incident to the police.
Duffy also posted about the incident on Facebook, revealing it took place on 18 August.
Duffy’s Facebook post | Photo: Facebook/Sam Duffy
Fear of basic life decisions
Duffy, who attends the University of Westminster, added: ‘I now fear to show any signs of my sexuality or take gay friends in or near the pub and surrounding area in fear of further homophobic attacks.’
He further said he has the pass the pub on the way to work, and gets nervous when he does so now.
Authorities are investigating the altercation as a hate crime.
‘The victim did not require medical treatment,’ a Met Police spokesman said. ‘Detectives are treating the assault as a hate crime. There have been no arrests.’
Another spokesman for the pub also made a statement, saying they have a ‘zero-tolerance’ policy towards ‘violent and homophobic behaviour’.
H/t: Evening Standard
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