Sunderland man’s racist tirade against police officer before shouting ‘free Tommy Robinson’

An off-shore worker shouted ‘free Tommy Robinson’ and directed abusive language at Kier Starmer during a racist tirade at a police officer who arrested him for lashing out after a family funeral.

James Sproat had thrown a chair, which hit a young mourner’s arm, smashed a glass and broke a window pane after drinking during the reception at Southwick Workingmen’s Club in Sunderland, last February (2025).

Newcastle Crown Court heard the daughter of the man whose funeral it was said it was “the worst day of her life” and she described the behaviour of Sproat, who is a relative, as vile and disrespectful.

Sproat was initially compliant when police arrived at his home afterwards but then started bragging about how much money he earned, before racially abusing the officer with a number of racial slurs and accused him of “living in the country for free”.

He stated he was “English and proud” then added: “Free Tommy Robinson, I can do what I want and you will never send me to jail”.

The officer said he was extremely upset and offended and added: “He took pride in what he was saying, you could see it in his eyes. He was repeatedly laughing.”

Sproat, 25, of Azalea Terrace South, Sunderland, admitted affray, assault by beating, criminal damage and racially aggravated harassment.

Miss Recorder Caroline Goodwin KC said Sproat’s behaviour at the funeral reception was “appalling and disgusting”.

The recorder told him: “No doubt you would have been someone to whom the people affected by your behaviour on that night would have looked to as being a bit of a success story, not been in trouble, having his own accommodation and frankly doing very well.

“But because of your thoughtless behaviour you have completely destroyed what was a terrible, upsetting day for those other members of your family who were there.”

Recorder Goodwinn said Sproat was “aggressive, arrogant, rude and appalling” towards the police officer.

Sproat was sentenced to 12 months suspended for 18 months with rehabilitation requirements, 100 hours unpaid work, a £1,000 fine, £350 compensation and costs.

Jennifer Coxon, defending, said: “He accepts it was disgusting behaviour
He is sickened and angry with himself. This has been a huge wake-up call.”

Sunderland Echo