First person in Wales convicted after encouraging people to start a riot on social media

A man who encouraged people to start a riot on social media has become the first person from Wales to be convicted following recent disorder across the UK.

Richard Williams, 34, of Buckley, Flintshire, posted about taking part in a riot and shared a derogatory meme about migrants in a local Facebook group dedicated to protests, Mold Magistrates’ Court heard.

Williams pleaded guilty to one count of sending menacing messages via a public communication network. He is due to be sentenced this afternoon.

Jenny Hopkins, Chief Crown Prosecutor for CPS Cymru/Wales, said:

“Williams wrongly thought that he could spread derogatory and menacing content from behind a computer screen.

“Despite not taking part in unrest himself, he used social media to encourage others to engage in violent behaviour.

“I hope today’s result sends a clear message to those using the internet to sow division – your actions have consequences and you will be prosecuted.”
Manchester Evening News