Rise in abuse and assaults on roadworkers

Monday, 18 August 2025 08:00

Staff doing roadworks in Jersey are now wearing bodycams because of a rise in abuse from motorists.

One of the contractors working for government on essential upgrades has reported a marked rise in abuse and assault aimed at its staff.

Managing Director Mike Osborne told Channel 103 that the worst examples have been reported to police.

Frustrations seem to boil over for some drivers when they are told they can not get through a roadworks barrier.

"Some people get abusive towards our staff, and this has escalated to the point of physical intimidation and physical abuse on occasion - where people have driven into our barriers and put our operatives at great personal danger.

"It has got to the position where they are now wearing bodycams.

"I think it is disgraceful that, on our island of Jersey, people (who are) part of the team delivering essential works for the island, are intimidated to the extent that they have to wear bodycams for their own protection."

Mr Osborne says they have reported the worst offenders to police and won't hesitate to handover future footage.

"We owe it to our employees to take action, not only for their own protection but also as a deterrent, to demonstrate that this kind of behaviour - which is from a minority but is regular and frequent - is not acceptable."