Sunderland man admits kicking policeman during violent protests in London

Daniel John Allan, pleaded guilty to one count of violent disorder against a police officer at Westminster Magistrates’ Court

A Sunderland man has admitted attacking a police officer during a day of violence in central London.

Daniel John Allan was remanded in custody at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Monday for violence as right-wing protesters, Black Lives Matter supporters and the police clashed on Saturday.

Allan, a father of two from Ridley Terrace, in Sunderland, was arrested on Saturday after kicking a policeman in the back.

He was later spotted in the crowd due to his “distinctive appearance” – a pair of luminous shorts, the court heard.

Allan, 35, pleaded guilty to one count of violent disorder against a police officer and will be sentenced at a later date.

Jennifer Gatland, prosecuting, said Allan travelled from his home as groups of right-wing protesters sought to protect statues around Whitehall and Trafalgar Square.

She said Allan “kicked out” at a policeman from behind, “suddenly and without provocation”.

He was later spotted due to his distinctive attire.

Remanding Allan into custody, District Judge Nicholas Rimmer said: “The seriousness of your conduct consists of being part of wider protesters in which missiles were thrown.

“You personally kicked out at (the police sergeant), that appears to have catalysed the violence.”

Eleanor Fraser, for Allan, said he has a previous conviction for violence in 2010, and suffered with depression and anxiety.

The court heard he had a panic attack upon arrest, and then in police custody.

Saturday’s far-right demonstration took place after thousands of anti-racist protesters marched in multiple events sparked by the death of George Floyd at the hands of white police officers in the US last month.

The Chronicle