David Robert Lane
Obstruction of HSE Inspectors *
Sentence
£3,000 fine, £6,450 costs, £1,200 victim surcharge
On February 11, 2024, in the Rugeley area, HSE inspectors observed two people accessing a roof from the bucket of an excavator at a construction site with around ten workers. David Robert Lane, the 59-year-old site manager from Talbot Street, Rugeley, Staffordshire, intervened, refused to identify himself except as 'James Bond', claimed to be the property owner, stated the workers were unpaid friends and relatives, denied legal right to inspect, and threatened violence, forcing inspectors to withdraw. A week later, with police, he again refused identification, called an officer 'PC Plod', instructed staff not to speak, and reiterated no right to inspect. Identified after enquiries, he was served enforcement action and responded with expletive-laden emails upon prosecution notification. He was prosecuted under two counts of section 33(1)(h) of the Health and Safety at Work etc Act 1974 for obstruction.
Tried in absence after failing to attend court on two occasions. Pleaded not guilty implicitly by absence. Sentenced for obstruction of HSE inspectors.