MAREK GODLEWSKI FROM DINGWALL SENTENCED AFTER BUS ASSAULT IN ROSS-SHIRE

A man with a troubling history of sexual offenses, Marek Godlewski, has been handed a seven-month prison sentence following a violent incident on a bus in Ross-shire. The incident, which occurred on December 4 of the previous year, involved the 20-year-old from Meiklefield Road, Dingwall, engaging in aggressive and unlawful behavior that alarmed fellow passengers and prompted intervention.

According to reports presented at Inverness Sheriff Court, the situation unfolded on a bus route traveling between Conon Bridge and Dingwall. Witnesses described how Godlewski, who had consumed approximately a litre of vodka prior to the incident, initially made unwanted advances toward a female passenger. His behavior escalated when he physically grabbed her by the throat, causing concern among other passengers. Several individuals on the bus responded swiftly, with some removing him from the vehicle to prevent further harm.

During the altercation, a male passenger stepped in to assist the young woman, attempting to de-escalate the situation. However, the defendant, who was intoxicated at the time, responded with violence and assaulted the man as well. The court was told that Godlewski’s actions were not isolated but part of a pattern of concerning behavior, especially considering his status as a registered sex offender for the past ten years.

In court, his defense lawyer, Patrick O’Dea, acknowledged his client’s ongoing efforts to address his alcohol dependency issues, including accessing counseling services. Despite this, Sheriff David Sutherland emphasized the importance of safeguarding the public, particularly on public transportation, and highlighted the need for a custodial sentence given the severity of the offenses and Godlewski’s criminal background.

Godlewski pleaded guilty to charges of breach of the peace and assault, and the court’s decision reflects the seriousness with which such incidents are regarded, especially involving individuals with prior sexual offense convictions. The sentence aims to serve both as punishment and a deterrent to others who might consider similar unlawful actions in public spaces.