Woman jailed over campaign of racially aggravated abuse

Barbara Aitchison (57) subjected her victims to verbal and physical abuse, threatening them on numerous occasions — and even following them to work.

The offences took placed between March and June last year. She grabbed and assaulted her victim in one incident.

She was found guilty of racially aggravated harassment and racially aggravated common assault, and was sentenced to 26 weeks in prison by magistrates in Sheffield yesterday (Wednesday).

Hate crime officer PC Chris Nicholson said: “Aitchison’s victims lived in fear and ended up being afraid to leave their homes in case they were confronted.

“This was a prolonged and drawn out series of offences which has had a significant impact on the victims, who have been repeatedly racially abused and harassed. 

“We are pleased that Aitchison has received a custodial sentence alongside her restraining order, it sends a signal that this type of criminality will be dealt with. 

“Any form of hate crime or abuse is totally unacceptable and I want people to know that where these kind of offences are committed, and where we can gather supporting evidence, South Yorkshire Police will pursue justice.”

Aitchison, of The Lanes, was also served an indefinite restraining order, banning her from any contact with the victims.