Readers have rallied behind a Birmingham father who narrowly avoided jail after confronting the family of his daughter's alleged bully. John Downing, 39, from Gypsy Lane in Erdington, reacted to what he described as the 'constant bullying' of his 12-year-old daughter.
Threats Made
Downing phoned the schoolgirl accused of bullying, saying: 'I'm going to burn your house, I will stab your family and I will slit all your family's necks.' On March 14, a court heard he later arrived at their home with an 'aggressive dog' and made further threats to the girl's mother and other children.
Court Outcome
Having previously pleaded guilty to threatening to damage or destroy property, Downing was handed a two-month prison sentence, suspended for 12 months, at Birmingham Magistrates' Court. He will not serve the time unless he reoffends within the year. A restraining order was also imposed, barring him from contacting the family, and he must complete 20 rehabilitation activity days.
Public Support
On social media, BirminghamLive readers overwhelmingly backed Downing for protecting his daughter. Ryan Aplin commented: 'Moral of the story? Don’t bully other kids.' Amy Piper said: 'As a parent of a child who was badly bullied, I totally stand by dad on this.' Stanley Tan added: 'Great dad. I'm sure he'd be more subdued if there was another way to stop the bullying. He's only protecting his child.'
Jade Mary Hanrahan wrote: 'Bullying is harmful and actions have consequences. This dad gave the consequences, moral of the story don't be a bully.' Kalv Singh noted: 'As a dad of a daughter, I understand his actions. Don't bully and expect no consequences. He did what most caring dads would have done to make their daughter feel protected and safe.' Charlotte Kilmister concluded: 'Well done to the dad for sticking up for his daughter. Bet the girl won't be bullying anyone again.'
