People have been arrested in connection with riots across the country last week. The riots began in Southport last Tuesday after three girls were killed in a knife attack in the town. The demonstrations spread to cities and towns such as Manchester, Liverpool, Middlesbrough, Rotherham, and Bolton. Many people have been arrested, and here are the details of some of those who have appeared in court accused of taking part in the riots.
A 14-year-old boy from Liverpool was part of a group of males who were lighting fireworks and setting them off in the direction of the public and police officers near a looted store in Liverpool city centre. He pleaded guilty to violent disorder and expressed regret for his actions. The court heard that he had no previous convictions and had never been in trouble with the police before. The teenager was granted bail and will be sentenced on 27 August.
William Nelson Morgan, a 69-year-old welder, admitted his role in the riots in Liverpool where he came armed with a wooden bat. He pleaded guilty to violent disorder and possession of an offensive weapon. Around 100 people set fire to bins, damaged local businesses, and set fire to buildings in Walton. Morgan was remanded in custody ahead of sentencing on 29 August.
Derek Drummond, 58, admitted punching a police officer in the face during a riot in Southport. He pleaded guilty to violent disorder and assault. Drummond was part of a group that began throwing bricks, although he denied throwing bricks himself. He was remanded in custody ahead of sentencing on 29 August.
Two brothers, Adam Wharton, 28, and Ellis Wharton, 22, appeared in court accused of crimes relating to a library that was set on fire during the riots. Adam admitted burglary with intent to steal, while Ellis admitted trying to steal a computer screen from the library. The court heard that the library provided support for a deprived community. Both brothers were remanded in custody ahead of their next appearance on 29 August.
The riots caused significant damage and disruption in various cities and towns. It is essential to address the root causes of such unrest and work towards building safer and more inclusive communities. The individuals involved in the riots will face justice for their actions, and it is crucial to learn from these incidents to prevent similar events in the future.
