John O’Malley’s guilty plea ‘not accepted at this stage’

The 43-year-old, also of Cambridge Gardens, is charged with violent disorder in connection with the disturbance in Southport on Tuesday. He is brought into the dock wearing a grey prison issue tracksuit and glasses with a shaved head.

O’Malley speaks to confirm his name, address and date of birthday before pleading guilty to the charge. Mr Sanderson-Kirk: “Mr O’Malley is identified by a member of the public. He is arrested at home.”

His guilty plea is entered on a basis “that his involvement was standing in a group of people shouting and gesticulating but not throwing objects, damaging property or assaulting anyone”. Mr Sanderson-Kirk says the basis is “not accepted at this stage” by the prosecution.

Mr Coleman says his client is “very lightly convicted”, although there is an entry for battery in 2023. Judge Boswell remands O’Malley into custody ahead of his sentencing before the crown court on August 29.

Liverpool Echo