A fundraiser has been launched to help the family of a father who was jailed for taking part in violent disorder outside a hotel housing asylum seekers in Bristol. Among those to donate was Tristan Tate, the brother of self-proclaimed misogynist Andrew Tate, who has given £2,500 to the cause.
Dominic Capaldi, 34, was jailed on Wednesday for 34 months after being caught on video footage throwing objects towards officers in the city’s Castle Park, while crowds chanted “send them back”. The ground worker also targeted police who were trying to prevent protesters from gaining entry to the Mercure Hotel, which is used to house asylum seekers.
Created by his friend on Friday, the crowdfunder for Capaldi’s family aimed to raise £1,000 – but by Saturday lunchtime had raised more than £3,000.
### Support for Capaldi’s Family
In a description on the page, it said: “Dom was arrested and rushed through the courts, before being handed a 34-month prison sentence for attending a demonstration in Bristol he felt he needed to, relating to the safety of his children’s future. Unfortunately he leaves a wife and children as well as an unpaid mortgage. Please dig deep if you can and help his family through this ridiculous time.”
A total of 34 people have so far donated, including former kickboxer Tristan Tate who is currently awaiting trial on charges of rape, forming an organised crime group, and human trafficking in Romania – allegations they have denied. He shared news of his donation with his 3 million followers on X.
His brother, Andrew, admitted he was wrong about the suspect in the Southport stabbing, which sparked the nationwide unrest, in an interview with Piers Morgan earlier this month.
### Outrage on Social Media
The fundraiser has been met with outrage by some on social media. One person wrote: “Was he not throwing stuff at police? Is that not a crime?” Another said: “He plead [sic] guilty. He didn’t have to do that, could have taken it to trial. He obviously thought he was caught bang to rights.”
Bristol Crown Court heard how Capaldi’s child was turning seven on the day of his sentencing, with the consequences of his offending having a “significant” impact on his family. Defending Capaldi, Mr John Stokes told the court: “It is very sadly a case of ‘hindsight is a wonderful thing’, he recognises now with retrospect the foolishness of his actions on that day.”
### Sentencing and Consequences
Judge Martin Picton jailed Capaldi for 34 months, telling the court: “This was the first post-Southport protest in Bristol to turn violent, but it has to be seen in the context of co-ordinated action on the part of extremists to cause violence, and by so doing to generate fear on the part of the community as a whole.” He added: “You were a part of that, standing within a large confrontational group who were acting in concert, but in particular you chose to throw objects at the mounted police officers who were required to put themselves in harm’s way to protect others.”
A total of 460 people had appeared in the magistrates’ court on charges relating to the disorder as of the end of 15 August, according to the Ministry of Justice. At least 72 people under the age of 18 are also believed to have been charged.
### Support for Capaldi’s Family Continues to Grow
Despite the controversy surrounding Capaldi’s actions, the support for his family continues to grow as donations pour in for the fundraiser. The generosity of individuals, including Tristan Tate, has helped the family surpass their initial fundraising goal, providing much-needed financial assistance during a difficult time.
The outpouring of support highlights the complexities of the situation, with individuals grappling with the implications of Capaldi’s actions and the impact on his family. While some may question the decision to support a convicted individual, others see it as a way to provide assistance to those affected by the consequences of his choices.
### Reflection on Actions and Consequences
As Capaldi reflects on his actions and the consequences he now faces, it serves as a reminder of the importance of thoughtful decision-making and the ripple effects of one’s choices. The aftermath of the violent disorder in Bristol serves as a sobering reminder of the impact of extremism and the need for accountability in the face of such actions.
While the fundraiser may spark debate and controversy, it also sheds light on the complexities of the justice system and the ways in which individuals can come together to support those in need. Whether through financial contributions or advocacy for change, the response to Capaldi’s situation underscores the power of community and compassion in times of adversity.
As the fundraiser for Capaldi’s family continues to garner support, it serves as a testament to the resilience and solidarity of individuals coming together in the face of hardship. The road ahead may be challenging, but with the support of those around them, Capaldi’s family can navigate these difficult times with a sense of hope and unity.