The judge said Joseph McKenzie’s behaviour ‘went far beyond any legitimate public protest’
A Middlesbrough protestor who was ‘at the forefront of the riots,’ has been locked up.
Joseph McKenzie shouted and swore, and “encouraged other rioters to throw a burning wheelie bin at the police’ who stood in a line blocking protestors from breaking away from the march and going down Clarendon Road on August 4. McKenzie, 28, was captured screaming: “I hate the *****,” as violence erupted around him. “Mobs hurled bricks” at officers and police cars were targeted – as 320 officers were deployed in Middlesbrough to police the riots.
McKenzie was convicted of violent disorder by a jury after standing trial at Teesside Crown Court. He claimed that he had become caught up in the riots after he tried to take a shortcut back to his car – which he said he needed to do because of his disabilities – when the police prevented him from doing so.
But on Monday, Judge Jonathan Carroll rejected McKenzie’s story, telling him that he had been seen to be fit and able on the CCTV, showing him walking during the riots.
McKenzie, of Skeldale Grove, in Darlington, appeared in court on video link from Holme House prison. Rachel Masters, prosecuting, told the court that PC Lake saw McKenzie and described him as being “at the forefront of the riots.” Ms Masters told the court that McKenzie was captured “encouraging other rioters to throw a lit wheelie bin at the line of police.”
The court heard that on some streets, the windows of every home were smashed. Ms Masters said that one resident told the police that she saw “mobs hurling bricks” outside.
In mitigation, Alarie Walmsley asked the court to consider a suspended prison sentence. McKenzie “had not thrown missiles or hid his identity in a balaclava,” Mr Walmsley said that his client was held on remand “since his arrest – his lesson has well and truly been learnt.”
Judge Carroll told McKenzie: “You were part of a body of people that had taken to the streets motivated by political cause. We have a longstanding tradition in the UK, of the right to protest. The punishment to be placed on you is not for protesting.
“You, as part and parcel of the violent disorder, went far beyond any legitimate protest. When missiles were thrown, this ceased to be a peaceful protest. You should have left the scene.
“You can be seen in the footage – your attitude, your anger – you were hurling the most unpleasant expletives. It is true that you did not hurl any missiles but you were encouraging the efforts of others, at one stage, to throw a burning wheelie bin at the police.”
A Darlington man has been convicted of violent disorder after he was at the forefront as protesters clashed with police during a riot in a North East town.
Joseph MacKenzie was one of five people on trial after widespread disorder caused chaos in Middlesbrough town centre.
The 28-year-old was caught on CCTV and mobile phone footage shouting vile abuse at police officers as they struggled to maintain order when hundreds of people rampaged around the town.
Jurors watched a video compilation of MacKenzie’s movements on August 4 which showed him at the forefront of the protesters standing in the way of the police line.
Rachel Masters, prosecuting, had asked PC Alan Lake how the defendant came to the attention of the police after jurors had watched a compilation of CCTV footage.
The Cleveland Police officer said: “He was heard shouting ‘we are f****** taking over’ and ‘we f****** hate you c****’.”
PC Lake said the defendant again approached the police cordon and tried to pass through, so he stepped in and arrested him as he was ‘irate and angry’.
During the trial, the defendant denied shouting abuse at the officers but accepted that he was shouting at them out of frustration.
MacKenzie, of Skeldale Grove, Darlington, was remanded in custody until he is sentenced in the new year.
Judge Jonathan Carroll said: “You have been convicted unanimously by a jury and you will be sentenced in January.
“I direct that a pre-sentence report be prepared, your counsel seeks to get further medical reports on you.
“Even though I am ordering a pre-sentence report do not take that as an indication of what your sentence will be – all sentencing options remain open.”
The charge of violent disorder against 38-year-old Anthony Brown, of Windsor Road, Middlesbrough, was dropped following a direction from the judge.
He was found not guilty of a charge of assaulting an emergency worker.
Charges against a fourth man, Christopher Howard, were dropped on the second day of the trial when the prosecution offered no evidence against the 42-year-old Middlesbrough man.
A fifth defendant, Ethan Bowes, pleaded guilty to violent disorder and possession of an offensive weapon on the day of the trial.
The 19-year-old, of Woodhouse Road, Guisborough, will be sentenced on January 14 next year and was remanded in custody while a pre-sentence report was completed.
The trial continues as jurors continue to consider the verdict in the case of Peacock-Lightfoot, 20, of Dixon Grove, Middlesbrough.
A man who livestreamed and yelled encouragement to a gang intent on attacking a mosque during a night of disorder has been detained for 15 months.
Brandon Welch, 18, shouted racial slurs as he filmed the violence in Darlington on 5 August, Teesside Crown Court heard.
He was part of a group of 30 white men clashing with about 60 Asian men in the Gladstone Street area, the court heard.
Welch, of Warkworth Way in Darlington, admitted violent disorder.
Prosecutor Rachel Masters said a social media post had been circulating during the day, encouraging anti-immigration protestors to gather in the area that night.
At about 21:30 BST, violence between the large groups broke out, with Durham Police officers attacked with missiles while trying to calm the situation and keep the groups apart.
Ms Masters said the white men were attempting to get to a mosque on North Lodge Terrace, but the Asian men were stopping them.
Welch livestreamed events on TikTok and, in between asking people to follow his account, shouted racial slurs at the opposing group, the court heard.
He also yelled support for the English Defence League (EDL) as well phrases including “go on lads” and “let the town burn”, Ms Masters said.
‘Serious violence’
Welch went on to shout abuse at police officers and encouraged a group to attack a car, with all of his activity captured on his own livestream, the court heard.
In a statement read to the court, Durham Police Chief Constable Rachel Bacon said the disorder had caused devastation to the community and cost the force more than £200,000.
In mitigation, John Nixon said Welsh knew he had acted in an “appalling way” and caused “great fear”, but he was genuinely remorseful.
Judge Francis Laird KC said Welch’s group were chanting “racist and far-right slogans” and carried out “serious acts of violence”.
He said Welch was at the “forefront” of the disorder which had caused public outrage.
The judge said the attack was racially aggravated but mitigation for Welsh included his young age, immaturity, “chaotic home life” and previous good character.
Hundreds attended so-called protests which saw missiles hurled at police, cars torched, windows and buildings smashed and cars damaged in Middlesbrough, Hartlepool and Darlington
Dozens of Teessiders have appeared in the dock after violence erupted at protests across the country.
Cars were torched, properties were damaged and missiles thrown at police in riots in Middlesbrough, Hartlepool and Darlington in July and August. Teesside Live previously reported on how protestors stormed Middlesbrough town centre on August 4, following a week of violence across the country.
Riot police, the dog unit and mounted officers flooded the town. Cleveland Police previously confirmed more than 100 people have been arrested and many handed prison sentences.
One rioter, Stacey Vint, fell flat on her face after pushing a bin at riot officers in Middlesbrough. She was also found in possession of drugs and was jailed for 20 months.
Here are the 28 rioters jailed on Teesside so far:
Stacey Vint
Undated handout photo issued by Cleveland Police of Stacey Vint, 34, who has been jailed for 20 months for her involvement in riots in Middlesborough on Sunday (Image: Cleveland Police/PA Wire)
Mum-of-five Stacey Vint pushed a lit wheelie bin at a line of police during the Middlesbrough riots. The 34-year-old had moved away from an abusive relationship and drugs pals in South Bank, but on the night of August 4, she met up with friends from her old neck of the woods.
Her barrister told Teesside Crown Court: “One of the group asked her to give him a hand with the wheelie bin and she did. She pushed the bin towards the police. She is not ‘anti-police’ or racist.”
Andrew Turton said his client had “the courage” to leave an abusive relationship of 14 years, where she had relied upon the police for her safety. He said that Vint has a history of drug and alcohol problems and that she was living in a hotel after a homeless spell, when she was captured on CCTV taking part in the riot.
The court heard that Vint fell flat on her face after pushing the bin at riot officers. She was arrested and searched and had a small amount of cannabis on her. Vint, of Lansbury Close in South Bank, pleaded guilty to violent disorder. She also admitted the possession of a class C drug.
The mother-of-five has a previous conviction for theft and received a police caution last year for battery – but Mr Turton said this was after she “fought back” against the domestic abuse she was suffering. Vint was jailed for 20 months.
John Barton
John Barton (Image: Cleveland Police)
An “aggressive and abusive” Teesside rioter was bitten by a police dog after he refused to move away from officers. John Barton, who was “struggling” with his break up, met up with his pals in Hartlepool town centre for a drink on July 31.
The dad then attended Murray Street with the group where hundreds had gathered for the violent protest. The 33-year-old – who claimed he hadn’t done anything to police – had actually hurled a brick at officers who were called in to control the growing mob.
Prosecutor Rachel Masters told Teesside Crown Court that the evidence against Barton, who has a three-year-old daughter, was “overwhelming” and that he pleaded guilty to violent disorder at a previous hearing at Teesside Crown Court. The court heard Barton was one of the men involved in the 200-strong protest – he was “present and participating”.
At around 9.20pm on Murray Street, police officers were pushing back the crowd. A man was seen hurling a brick at police officers and refusing to move back – that man was later identified as Barton.
One officer, who had a police dog, “stood his ground”. Barton was then bit by the dog in the stomach area, Ms Masters told the court.
Erin Kitson-Parker, mitigating, stated that Barton’s “best mitigation” was that he pleaded guilty to violent disorder and that he has “genuine remorse”. The court heard that Barton’s time in custody has been a “sobering experience” as he has never been in custody before.
Ms Kitson-Parker added that her client has three previous convictions for four offences. “It is the biggest regret of his life,” she added.
At the time of the offence, Barton had broken up with his partner and “struggled” to get over it and had recently found out that his estranged father had died. Ms Kitson-Parker told His Honour Judge Francis Laird KC that Barton has worked in factories and in quality control on wind turbines for the past decade.
Barton, of of Duke Street, Hartlepool, was sentenced to 27 months in prison. He will serve half of his sentence in custody before being released on licence.
Natalie Wood
Natalie Wood has been jailed at Teesside Crown Court for 27 months for violent disorder (Image: Cleveland Police)
This benefit-swindling mum taunted police officers as part of a violent mob. Natalie Wood shouted “come on then” at police officers during the Hartlepool riot on July 31.
The 39-year-old then bent down, picked up a bottle from the floor and hurled it towards line of cops. But unlucky for her, she was caught on CCTV – and identified by her probation officer.
Prosecuting the case, Rachel Masters outlined that the evidence against Wood’s involvement in the violent Hartlepool disorder was “overwhelming”. The court heard Wood, who was wearing an orange dress, black coat and black trainers, was identified on CCTV by her probation officer.
Ms Masters stated that Wood “picks up debris from the floor and throws it at police officers”. The court heard that Wood has eight convictions for 24 offences – with an attempted robbery seeing her locked up for over four years .
She was caught wrongly claiming a total of £17,500 in child tax credits, carer’s allowance and housing benefit when her five children were no longer in her care. Wood also launched violent street muggings, with punches and “tugs of war” for handbags alongside her pal Katrina Turner.
Kate Barnes, mitigating, stated that Wood had ‘no knowledge or political interest’ in the Hartlepool riot and was “just present” at the scene for a long time. However, the defence barrister conceded that her client threw a plastic bottle towards police.
Wood, of Richmond Street, Hartlepool, was sentenced to 27 months in prison. She will serve half of her sentence before being released on licence.
Bradley Playford
Bradley Playford was jailed at Teesside Crown Court for eight months (Image: Cleveland Police)
A “lonely” yob who “craved to be part of a group” jumped up and down “goading” a burglar to steal a till as hundreds caused chaos in Middlesbrough. Burglar Bradley Playford “took advantage” of the town centre riots to steal from the Red Lantern restaurant.
The 24-year-old was caught on CCTV throwing missiles at the windows of the Middlesbrough eatery before using his arm, then a bottle, to remove smashed glass from the door frame. The GroveHill man was later seen smashing the till from the Chinese takeaway – before sharing his loot with another burglar.
Prosecuting the case, Rachel Masters outlined that Playford pleaded guilty to burglary on August 4. The Middlesbrough court heard how a “peaceful protest” was arranged in the town centre following previous disorder across the UK.
Over 1,000 people took part, gathering on Linthorpe Road before marching towards Middlesbrough town centre around 1.45pm. Ms Masters said that the gathering was peaceful despite some shouting ‘take back our country’.
However, as the protest reached Clarendon Road items were thrown and police officers made the decision to form a line to prevent the mob from entering the road. Violence then erupted leading to windows being smashed, businesses damaged and missiles thrown.
At around 3.30pm, items were thrown at the Red Lantern restaurant on Parliament Road. The eatery was closed at the time and nobody was inside.
Playford, who was wearing red shorts, was caught on CCTV throwing items at the window causing it to smash. He then walks up to the door and uses his arm to remove smashed glass. He then comes back with a bottle to remove more glass from the sides of the door.
He is then spotted “jumping up and down and goading” another male to steal the till from inside the restaurant, Ms Masters said. The court is then shown another video, which was uploaded to TikTok with the caption ‘Middlesbrough has fallen’, showing Playford smashing the till on the floor before taking out money from inside the till.
Jonathan Gittins, mitigating, stated that there was “no planning to go out and commit this offence” and it is the first time his client has been in trouble with the courts. The defence barrister described Playford as a “lonely and isolated individual”, adding that he suffers from mental health issues and “bullying”.
Playford, of Shelley Road, Grove Hill, Middlesbrough, was jailed for eight months.
Dylan Willis
Dylan Willis (Image: Cleveland Police)
This teenage yob hurled bricks at a Chinese takeaway during the Middlesbrough riot. Dylan Willis began throwing a missile at the Red Lantern’s window on August 4 as hundreds filled the streets in Middlesbrough town centre. But when his first brick didn’t smash the eatery’s window he continued.
Teesside Crown Court heard that the 18-year-old has “truly exceptional circumstances” as he appeared for sentencing on Monday. The Hartlepool man previously pleaded guilty to violent disorder.
Willis, who was wearing black sunglasses and a black t-shirt, was caught on police footage carrying a brick on Parliament Road. He threw the brick towards the window of the Red Lantern restaurant – but the “large window” didn’t smash.
However, Willis threw a further two missiles towards the windows and smashed the glass, the court heard. Following the riot Cleveland Police launched a campaign to catch the culprits involved in the large scale disorder.
Willis handed himself in on August 19 and admitted his actions. Gary Wood, mitigating, stated that his client has “truly exceptional circumstances”.
Mr Wood added that the teen was “throwing bricks or rocks at a window” and caused damage. He told His Honour Judge Francis Laird KC that Willis did not throw missiles towards people or any police officers – and was “limited to causing damage”.
Willis, of Masefield Road, Hartlepool, was described as a “vulnerable young man” who has previously been homeless. “He is easily drawn in with others,” Mr Wood added, explaining that he has been diagnosed with ADHD and autism.
Judge Laird sentenced Willis to 14 months detention in a young offenders institute, He must serve half of his sentence before being released on licence.
Toni Lunam
Toni Lunam, 36, was sentenced at Teesside Crown Court (Image: Cleveland Police)
A “vulnerable” homeless woman who was captured on camera hurling two bricks at a line of riot police, and shouting abuse at them, was jailed in September. Toni Lunam, 36, was sleeping rough in Hartlepool when she became involved in the violent protest on July 31.
She was carrying three plastic carrier bags housing all of her possessions, and a “cheap bottle” of cider, which she had opened – when she was captured shouting abuse and swearing at police. Her barrister Michele Turner said that she is “vulnerable and never settled” in the town – after previously living in Gateshead and Middlesbrough – and took drugs and alcohol alongside two friends to “ease the pain”.
CCTV captured Lunam dressed in a black DKNY t-shirt, angry and shouting at the police. The Collingwood Road, Hartlepool defendant pleaded guilty to violent disorder, two shop thefts and to the possession of cocaine. She has previous convictions for shop theft. Lunam was jailed for 20-months.
Lennox Crockett
Lennox Crockett (Image: Cleveland Police)
This teen got involved in the Hartlepool riots for “the sheer excitement and adrenaline” and was sent to a Young Offenders Institution. Lennox Crockett handed himself into police after he was caught on bodycam footage throwing rocks at a line of police, from close quarters, in the midst of the screaming and chaos of the riots on July 31. The 19-year-old was dressed all in black, with his hood up, but was captured arguing with police as they shouted at rioters to move back.
He was seen encouraging others, including children, to push at the police line. Teesside Crown Court watched police bodycam footage, showing Crockett repeatedly throwing rocks at riot officers, who held up their plastic shields to protect themselves from being hit. The court heard that weeks before the riot, Crockett was arrested after police were called out to a report of a burglary.
The Middlesbrough court watched police bodycam footage, showing Crockett repeatedly throwing rocks at riot officers, who held up their plastic shields to protect themselves from being hit. The court heard that weeks before the riot, Crockett was arrested after police were called out to a report of a burglary.
Crockett, of Denham Green, Pallister Park in Middlesbrough, pleaded guilty to violent disorder and to the possession of class A and B and C drugs; and failing to surrender to custody – after he failed to turn up at Teesside Magistrates’ Court on September 5.
In mitigation, Michele Turner said that all of her client’s offending is recent and “it is to fit in”. She added: “It was the sheer excitement and adrenaline – I think is the way to explain his involvement. His fight was against the police.”
Crockett was sent to a Young Offenders’ Institution for 18-months.
Amanda Walton and Megan Davison
Mum Amanda Walton and daughter Megan Davison (Image: Cleveland Police)
A mum and daughter who took part in the Middlesbrough riots on August 4 were jailed in September. Megan Davison, 24, was filmed climbing on top of a car on Parliament Road and jumping up and down on it’s roof, as protestors walked past her and violence broke out. She was later filmed coming out of a shop with items stuffed up her top; she was easily visible in a pink tracksuit.
Amanda Walton, 52, brought her dog to the riots and she also stood out of the crowds on Parliament Road, as she wore a bright orange jacket. She was captured throwing an object at a house and damaging a car wing mirror.
Davison, a mother-of-two, was captured on police bodycam sticking her finger up at officers at she dragged boyfriend Jake Wray away from an argument with officers. Wray, 23, who lives with Megan Davison, later pleaded guilty to violent disorder after he was captured setting up a checkpoint on Linthorpe Road and only allowing white drivers to pass.
Walton, of Ashling Way in Linthorpe, and Davison, of Seaton Street in central Middlesbrough, both pleaded guilty to violent disorder. Both women were taken into prison after their guilty pleas, on August 29. Walton has six previous convictions, including two for battery.
In mitigation, the court heard that Davison said she had taken “a cocktail of zopiclone and pregabalin” as well as a alcohol the night before and that she was still intoxicated when she joined the riot. Davison’s barrister said her client had recently left an abusive relationship.
Walton had been “concerned about her daughter”, Gary Wood told the court, “She hadn’t pre-planned getting involved but she can offer no explanation as to why she threw the object.”
Walton offered up a “positive behaviour record” given to her by prison staff at HMP Low Newton; and Davison reported that she has been moved onto the drug-free wing there, and had sought help in prison, for her drug addiction.
Walton was jailed for 22-months; her daughter Davison received 20-months.
Steven Mailen and Ryan Sheers
Steven Mailen, 54, and Ryan Sheers, 29 (Image: Cleveland Police)
This couple were the first to be jailed on Teesside for their part in riots. Former postmaster and school governor Steven Mailen, 54, and his partner Ryan Sheers, 29, were captured dancing and gesticulating at a line of police officers on Murray Street in Hartlepool as the crowd behind them roared on the evening of July 31. Mailen shouted abuse at an officer, who repeatedly warned him to “get back.”
Mailen refused, and was hit by a police baton on his leg. His partner, Sheers, shouted abuse as he tried to push through the line of five police officers. He was bitten on the hip and the right buttock by a police dog, which prompted the crowd to disperse.
Mailen tried to free his partner from the dog, and he grabbed a police officer’s radio, which had fallen to the ground. A scuffle broke out as it took three police officers to arrest Mailen and get him into a police van.
He wept in the dock at Teesside Crown Court as the judge was told that the couple had spent the day “at the bingo” and that they had happened upon the riot by chance when they went out later in the evening to buy alcohol. Police bodycam footage captured Mailen, who now works as a carer, dancing and taunting officers “at the forefront of the mob.” Mailen later kicked an officer in the shin, as he was arrested.
Mailen, of Elliott Street, and Sheers, of Powlett Road in Hartlepool, both pleaded guilty to violent disorder at Teesside Magistrates’ Court on August 2. In mitigation, Nigel Soppitt said that Mailen had been the victim of prejudice himself, as a gay man. He said: “He despises the far right.”
Mr Soppitt asked the judge to consider a suspended sentence. He said: “He was violent and confrontational that night, but most of the violence took place once he was arrested. He lashed out and he realises that his behaviour encouraged others to misbehave.”
For Sheers, Mr Soppitt told the court that “his behaviour was aggressive and disgusting. He saw his partner brought down with the baton and the red mist came down. He wanted to help his partner.
“He was shouting at police officers and refusing to leave – but that’s the extent of it. He was clearly inflaming the situation. He was not involved in the violence, he was just very confrontational that night. He wants no part in right wing ideology.” Both men were jailed for 26 months.
Bobby Shirbon
Bobby Shirbon joined Hartlepool riots on his 18th birthday after a night at the bingo (Image: Cleveland Police)
This teenager was out celebrating his birthday at the bingo when he decided to join riots. Bobby Shirbon had just turned 18 on Wednesday, July 31, when he became aware of a disturbance in his hometown Hartlepool.
Instead of going home the teenager joined a mob who were hurling bottles, bricks, beer cans and wooden planks towards riot police. The Cornwall Street defendant was caught on shocking bodycam footage hurling at object towards officers. Footage was shown at Teesside Crown Court and captured Shirbon at the front of the pack.
Wearing a blue t-shirt, he was gesticulating and wearing a balaclava. Police could be heard shouting: “Attention, Attention! This is a police warning, disperse immediately!” The crowd could be heard jeering in response.
Prosecuting the case, Rachel Masters said the defendant wasn’t arrested that night but returned to the town centre on August 1. She said police received a call about another group gathering in Hartlepool.
Ms Masters said police vehicles were targeted with missiles which included rocks and potatoes. The prosecutor said officers heard “thuds” hitting their police van and Shirbon was identified.
He was detained but told police “it’s ok everybody else is doing it”. In police interview he made no comment to the majority of questions asked. Ms Masters said he denied being responsible for the commission of any offences and claimed he was not present at the time.
However, he later pleaded guilty to violent disorder and criminal damage. In mitigation, Michael Cahill said the defendant was celebrating his 18th birthday at the Bingo on the night of the offence. He said instead of going home the teen went to see what was going on and became involved.
He added: “He is a very young man, a care leaver and has got to this stage in his life without troubling the court system. He has damaged his prospects.”
The court heard Shirbon cares from his mother and had the “good sense” to plead guilty to his crimes. However, in sentencing Judge Judge Francis Laird described the teen’s actions as “disgraceful.”
Judge Laird sentenced the teenager to 20 months detention in a Young Offender Institution. The Judge said he will serve up to half of his sentence in custody before being released on licence.
Kieron Gatenby
Kieron Gatenby
Kieron Gatenby joined in the Hartlepool riots on July 31, by throwing an egg at police and was jailed for 16-months. The steelworker claimed he didn’t know anything about a pre-planned demonstration, which was arranged after a post on social media listed the addresses of asylum seekers in the town. He claimed he was simply walking to his girlfriend’s house, when he got caught up in the widespread violence, on Murray Street, in Hartlepool.
But Gatenby joined a right wing group who were throwing bottles and bricks at a line of police, and chanting in support of far-right activist Tommy Robinson, for an hour. He was captured on CCTV “throwing a missile.” He later admitted he had thrown an egg – and this was accepted by prosecutors, who examined the evidence.
Gatenby, 19, pleaded guilty to violent disorder at Teesside Magistrates’ Court. He has never been in trouble before. In mitigation, Calum McNicholas said that his client studied bricklaying at college before starting work at a steel company.
“A probation report has found there is “no evidence he has any racist views,” Mr McNicholas said. “He tells me that his three half-brothers are mixed-race. He says he is disgusted at being involved with people who were chanting racist slurs.”
Mr McNicholas told the court that Gatenby “does not claim to be especially bright” but that he works hard. “The actions of Mr Gatenby will haunt him for the rest of his life. He will have the stain of this incident on his record and on his conscience, for 60 years from today – given that the average lifespan of a male is 80 years. He was clearly caught in a wave of madness and his youth played a role in that.”
Gatenby’s pre-sentence report recommended a community-based punishment, stating: “He is young, immature male who has made a flawed decision. I found no evidence of a racist attitude of beliefs. He behaved impulsively and displayed poor thinking skills.”
The defendant, of Yeovil Walk in Hartlepool, stood in shock, as he was was sent to a Young Offenders’ Institution for 16-months. His relatives sitting in the public gallery could be heard sobbing.
Carl Holliday
Carl Holliday was handed a 32-month prison sentence (Image: Cleveland Police)
This alcoholic drank 30 cans of lager before lobbing metal sheeting at riot cops in Hartlepool. Carl Holliday, stormed the town centre with far-right protesters on July 31, before the night erupted into violence. The court heard that morning, police were made aware of social media posts encouraging the public to attend a protest.
Prosecutor Rachel Masters said at 6pm CCTV identified a group gathering at the Cenotaph and by 8pm the protest had turned violent. She said the defendant was spotted by police and appeared heavily intoxicated. She said he was throwing metal sheeting at officers and was constantly shouting and swearing.
Bodycam footage played in court shows the defendant in a striped shirt repeatedly hurling metal sheeting at police. A number of metal sheets can be seen scattered around police who are carrying riot shields.
The court heard the defendant’s behaviour was over a 30 minute period and the 30-year-old was identified and later arrested. In police interview, the Hartlepool defendant told officers he had been drinking heavily.
Ms Masters said: “On the day in question he drank in the region of 30 cans of lager. He did not recall being involved in the disorder.”
The defendant has 15 convictions for 18 offences and later pleaded guilty to using unlawful violence. Duncan McReddie , defending Holliday, said he is a chronic alcoholic with no extreme political or racist views, but had heard the commotion while drinking a few streets away and “joined in”.
The court heard the Tankerville Street resident did not want to trouble the court and in his own words said: ”It is what it is. I’ve done what I’ve done, I know I’ll have to be punished.”
Judge Laird said only a custodial sentence is justified. He handed Holliday a 32-month prison sentence. He will serve up to half the sentence in custody.
Charlie Bullock
Undated handout photo issued by Cleveland Police of Charlie Bullock, 21, who has been jailed for 18 months for his involvement in riots in Middlesborough on Sunday. (Image: Cleveland Police/PA Wire)
A balaclava-clad rioter who resisted arrest told a court he hadn’t taken his ADHD medication on the day of the Middlesbrough riot. Charlie Bullock, 21, threw rocks at a line of police who were standing in the midst of the crowd, to prevent people from moving into a residential street.
Bullock was part of a huge crowd who gathered near the Cenotaph on Linthorpe Road on August 4. Bullock was not caught on camera, but a police officer saw him wearing a black balaclava, as he attacked cops who held up shields to protect themselves.
Teesside Crown Court heard the demonstration began peacefully, but chants of “take our country back” began, as some of the crowd broke away and tried to push past the police line, to get into Clarendon Road.
As PC Lake tried to arrest Bullock, Bullock “kicked out” at him. The officer took Bullock to the ground to handcuff him, but people began to surround PC Lake. The officer was assaulted a number of times, before police back-up arrived and Bullock was taken into custody.
Bullock, of Donington Green, in the Netherfields area of Middlesbrough, pleaded guilty to violent disorder. He had never been in trouble with the police before.
In mitigation, Gary Wood told the court that his client “didn’t take his ADHD medication before the offending and as a consequence, found himself involved in the activity”.
He added: “A report by the probation service has found that when Bullock is not on his medication he has ‘poor impulse control and can be angry and irritated’.” Bullock was jailed for 18 months.
Cole Stewart
Cole Stewart, 18, who was caught on CCTV throwing bricks at police officers, is jailed for 18 months (Image: Durham Constabulary)
An 18-year-old who was caught on camera celebrating after he managed to hit a police officer with a brick outside a Darlington mosque, was sent to a young offenders’ institution in August. Cole Stewart was lobbing bricks at a line of police, who were preventing a crowd of protestors from getting into the mosque, on August 5. He shouted, “I’m a child! I’m a child!” at officers when he was arrested.
Stewart was one of about 30 rioters who gathered in the Kendrew Street car park. A group of 60 Asian men confronted them. It was the prosecution’s case that Cole was part of a racially-motivated attack, which was part of a planned attack on the mosque, on North Lodge Terrace. Cole admitted violent disorder. He has previous convictions for assault and threatening behaviour.
Stewart’s defence barrister Gary Wood told Teesside Crown Court that his client is “vulnerable” and has a social worker. It was feared that Cole, who was in care from the age of two, was at risk of being exploited.
He was living in a homeless hostel when he joined in with the riot. Cole had been assigned a helper, who is employed by the council and tried to show him how to live independently.
Helper Sarah Bain told the court: “He was caught up with the wrong sort of people, being exploited. There was intelligence that he was selling drugs and just being a nuisance. Then there were threats to kill on his life.” Ms Bain said that Stewart “has never displayed any racist traits.”
Mr Wood asked the court “to take exceptional circumstances and draw back from immediate custody” for Stewart, who had been volunteering with a roofing company in the hope of finding work.
Stewart, of Victoria Road in Darlington, was sent to a young offenders’ institution for 18-months. He will serve half of his sentence before being released on licence.
Aaron Bradshaw
Aaron Bradshaw
A 28-year-old man who threw bricks, stones and wood at police in Hartlepool was jailed for two years and eight months in August. Aaron Bradshaw, from the town, was captured on footage a number of times throwing missiles at officers during the disorder on July 31, Cleveland Police said.
The force said he “played a significant role” in the rioting. A spokesman said: “He demonstrated aggressive behaviour and at one point was in possession of a police-style baton – lashing out at the officers to attempt to assault them.
“Bradshaw grabbed a large wooden plank which he launched towards the officers.”
Bradshaw was jailed at Teesside Crown Court on Thursday, the force confirmed. Cleveland Police said three other men were also jailed on Thursday in relation to the violence in Hartlepool on July 31 and Middlesbrough on August 4.
Ben Judge
Ben Judge
Ben Judge, 28, from Hartlepool, was jailed for three years. Cleveland Police said he threw bricks and a metal object at police during the disorder on July 31 and kicked-in a boarded-up window after pulling off the boarding.
Jonathan Ambrose
Jonathan Ambrose
Jonathan Ambrose, 33, from Middlesbrough, was identified as throwing missiles at officers during disorder on August 4. The force said he was also found in possession of class B drugs. Ambrose was jailed for 30 months.
Donna Conniff
Donna Conniff (Image: Cleveland Police)
This mother-of-six hurled a brick at police in the Hartlepool riots.
Donna Conniff, 40, was captured on camera in her sunglasses, throwing a brick at a line of riot police; before she handed a brick to a youth, and watched as he threw it. As the riot turned violent, at around 8pm on July 31, Conniff surged forward with the crowd.
She was captured shouting “go on” at police before she hurled a rock at them. It hit a police officer’s shield. Conniff was identified after police put together bodycam and drone footage of the riot and issued a public appeal to identify her. Live recordings posted on TikTok showed Conniff shouting and throwing a brick dressed in black leggings, crocs, and carrying a beige handbag and wearing sunglasses.
Conniff was arrested and pleaded guilty to violent disorder, at a short hearing. In August, Teesside Crown Court heard how a crowd of approximately 200 people gathered at Hartlepool’s cenotaph, after a social media post disclosed the addresses of alleged asylum seekers in the area, and organised a “protest.”
The crowd marched onto Murray Street and turned violent. Bottles, bricks and beer cans were thrown at police – leaving several offices injured. The court heard that PC Benson was recording the riot with a camcorder, when he was hit on the head by a brick.
In mitigation, Martin Scarborough told the court that Conniff “came across the riot by chance” as she was visiting her mother. “It was not politically motivated for her” Mr Scarborough said, “I know it was by some. She was quite tearful in her meeting with probation. She can’t believe she’s acted in the way she has.”
Conniff, of Alford Court in Hartlepool, was jailed for two-years. A shout of “love you” was heard as she was led out of the dock.
Joel Bishop
Hartlepool’s Joel Bishop was caught throwing missles at riot police in Hartlepool (Image: cleveland police)
An Army veteran with an “exemplary” military record was caught on video lobbing a plank of wood at riot police after violence erupted in Hartlepool.
Judge Francis Laird KC branded Joel Bishop’s actions as “disgraceful” after footage of him using vile language and being violent towards police was shown at Teesside Crown Court on Tuesday. The court heard the dad-of-two threw a plank of wood and rocks at officers all while shouting ‘b***k c****’ and “aim for the fat c***.”
The prosecution accepted it was not a racist comment, but an insult directed at police. The shocking footage was taken on a mobile phone on Wednesday, July 31, after chaos erupted at a far-right protest in the town centre.
Prosecuting the case, Rachel Masters said prior to the incident police were alerted to a number of posts encouraging the public to attend a far-right demonstration. She said at 6pm CCTV identified a group gathering at the Cenotaph and by 8pm the protest turned violent.
Bishop, of Hartlepool, was spotted throwing missiles at police on three occasions as police tried to deal with the disorder. He was also heard shouting offensive remarks at police officers but it was accepted by the prosecution it was not meant as a racial slur and referred to police uniforms.
The 27-year-old pleaded guilty to violent disorder and two counts of possessing an offensive weapon at an earlier hearing in the lower court. In mitigation, Bishop’s barrister Rod Hunt said the defendant has an “excellent” military record.
He said: “He joined the Army at 18 straight from his sixth form college. He qualified in about eight subjects and chose the Royal Logistic Corps. He can drive any vehicle up to and including tanks. He served in the Army for five years and left with an excellent record with no discipline marks recorded against him. He boxed for his regiment and took part in ski competitions throughout the Armed forces including winter combat exercises.”
Mr Hunt said when Bishop left the Army he became a HGV driver and was put forward for ‘Young Driver of the Year’ at one firm. He said the defendant lives with his mother due to his work but has a partner of ten years who he shares two young children with.
The Tweed Walk resident – who has no previous convictions – was jailed for 18 months.
Declan Dixon
Rioter Declan Dixon was jailed at Teesside Crown Court
A 22-year-old electrician who threw a brick at police during disorder in Hartlepool was jailed for 18 months in August.
Declan Dixon was seen on video footage picking up a missile and throwing it at police in riot gear on the night of July 31 after a protest grew violent. When he was arrested 11 days later, sitting in a BMW, he was found to be in possession of a small amount of cocaine, Teesside Crown Court heard.
Rachel Masters, prosecuting, said Dixon was working on Teesside at the time and he told police he was present that night “out of curiosity”. He admitted violent disorder and possessing cocaine as Judge Francis Laird KC jailed him for 18 months, saying: “Your behaviour, and the behaviour of others around you, was disgraceful.”
Gary Wood, defending, said Dixon, of Salisbury Avenue, Hindley, Wigan, was immature, had no previous convictions and has now lost his £1,600-a-month apprenticeship. The judge accepted the defendant came from a “loving family”.
He added: “It is very difficult to understand how you came to be involved with a violent mob.”
Matthew Putson
Matthew Putson kicked and punched a police officer during the Middlesbrough riots (Image: Cleveland Police)
A Middlesbrough rioter who attacked a police officer and was then pulled away by a crowd, to stop him being arrested, was locked up in August.
Matthew Putson, 27, was later seen climbing up a traffic light, wearing a head covering, and trying to damage it. He was also captured lobbing glass bottles and bricks at a line of riot police as his sister was heard pleading with him to stop.
Teesside Crown Court heard that Putson was initially spotted by a police officer, standing within a group of people who were making racist comments, within the riots on August 4. He started shouting at the officer, before he kicked the PC’s leg and punched his right hand.
PC McCone was wearing pads on his legs, and escaped injury. At 4pm, as further violence erupted on the junction of Linthorpe Road, Ayreseome Street and Park Road North, Putson climbed up the traffic light.
He was later identified from footage by an officer who had dealt with him before. He was arrested six days after the riots and pleaded guilty to violent disorder and assaulting an emergency worker, on August 13.
Putson has 30 previous convictions for 53 offences which include battery, numerous criminal damage convictions and the possession of a blade.
Putson’s barrister Gary Wood said that although Putson was “directly associated with people using racial slurs, he did not use offensive language himself.” Mr Wood said that his client “had expressed shame” during a meeting with him and said that “he had intended to behave peacefully, but accepts he completely lost sight of that.”
Putson, of Palmer Street in Middlesbrough, was jailed for 32-months.
Louis McGrother
Louis McGrother (Image: Cleveland Police)
This Middlesbrough rioter wheeled a lit waste container at a line of police. Louis McGrother, 22, was captured shouting and kicking out at the police, before he got hold of the plastic bin. Along with other rioters, McGrother lit the the plastic Biffa waste container and pushed it at the police cordon on Linthorpe Road.
He was captured on bodycam footage as officers held up their shields to protect themselves, after the riot turned violent and missiles were thrown at the police, on the evening of August 4. The police cordon was formed to try and stop rioters breaking away onto Clarendon Road.
Days later, on August 12, McGrother walked into a police station and handed himself in. He had seen himself on the video that police released to the media; it showed McGrother, clearly visible in green shorts and a blue jumper, pushing the bin alongside other rioters. McGrother took the clothes he was wearing in the footage into Middlesbrough police station.
He refused to answer police questions but later pleaded guilty violent disorder. He has one previous conviction for four driving offences, after he crashed into a Ford Focus on the M11 in June 2022. McGrother was banned from the roads at the time and he failed to stop after the crash or report the accident.
In mitigation, Joel Wootton said that McGrother had gone to the pre-arranged meeting point at the Cenotaph to take part “…in a peaceful protest. “The mob mentality took hold” Mr Wootton said, “he got carried away.”
McGrother’s barrister said that his client felt a “great deal of regret” after seeing himself in the footage “acting the way he was. He knows he has let everyone in the town down. He has a great amount of affection for Middlesbrough.”
McGrother, of South View Terrace, Middlesbrough, was jailed for 20-months.
Brandon Welch, 18, also shouted racial slurs during the violence in Darlington
A teenager who livestreamed violent disorder in Darlington and urged rioters to smash up people and property has been convicted.
Brandon Welch filmed and live posted the disorder on his TikTok account, during which he encouraged people to smash cars, property, and people up. The 18-year-old also shouted racial slurs during the disorder, which happened on the evening of Monday, August 5. The riot in Darlington was one of several which took place across the country.
Welch was arrested the following morning at his home in the Whinfield area of Darlington after officers identified him through his TikTok account.
He was charged with violent disorder, which he admitted during a hearing at Teesside Crown Court this week, and was remanded in custody ahead of his sentencing on Tuesday, October 15.
Dozens of police officers were deployed to the North Lodge Park area of Darlington after two large groups of mostly males had gathered just after 9pm. This resulted in small pockets of serious violence, which saw bricks being thrown at police officers who attended the scene.
Chief Insp Victoria Cubby, from Durham Constabulary, said: “The scenes we saw in Darlington that evening were atrocious and will not be tolerated. I hope this sends a clear message that anyone who commits these types of offences and tries to incite violence in our communities, that your actions have very real consequences.”
Seven people have pleaded guilty to violent disorder in relation to riots last month.
Hartlepool saw a night of unrest on 31 July, in a wave of disorder that spread across the country following the Southport stabbings and anti-immigration-fuelled social media misinformation.
Tamsyn Carr, 21, James Elliot, 41, John Barton, 33, Natalie Wood, 39, and Dylan Wiley, 28, all from Hartlepool, and Mark Crozier, 38, from Middlesbrough, pleaded guilty at Teesside Crown Court.
Several others who were charged entered pleas of not guilty, relating to riots in Hartlepool and Middlesbrough.
One man also pleaded not guilty to violent disorder and assaulting a police officer.
Five of those who pleaded guilty are due to be sentenced next week, although Carr will be sentenced in October.
Meanwhile, Brandon Welch, 18, from Darlington, pleaded guilty to violent disorder on 5 August in Middlesbrough and will be sentenced in October.
Nine others denied a violent disorder charge relating to unrest in Middlesbrough on 4 August.
Two men pleaded not guilty to violent disorder, two counts of arson and racially aggravated behaviour over the weekend of 3 and 4 August.
However, as the court heard their case was not directly linked to the riot, a trial date was set for 20 January.
A teenager seen “celebrating” after throwing an object which hit a police officer during riots in Darlington has pleaded guilty to violent disorder.
Cole Stewart, 18, of Victoria Road, Darlington, was remanded in custody to be sentenced at Teesside Crown Court on Friday.
A district judge heard the defendant, who had bruises on his face when he appeared at Teesside Magistrates Court, was seen “throwing objects at police” during the disorder on Monday.
Heather Blair, prosecuting, said an officer “felt a sharp blow to his wrist” from an object believed to be thrown by Stewart, who was then seen “celebrating with his arms in the air”.
Joe MacKenzie is one of 28 people in the dock at Teesside Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday in connection with the disorder on Sunday
Joe MacKenzie Joe MacKenzie was ‘arrested on suspicion of throwing items, attacking police throughout the day and shouting expletives’
A company director sobbed in court on Tuesday, dabbing his eyes with a handkerchief, as he was told he would be remanded in custody for his alleged part in rioting in Middlesbrough on Sunday.
Joe MacKenzie, 28, is accused of being among a main body of around 20 men wearing balaclavas and face coverings who clashed with the police during violent disorder in the city.
He is one of 28 people to have appeared at Teesside magistrates’ court on Tuesday in connection with the disorder.
Those who appeared in court are aged between 16 and 56.
Twenty-six are charged with violent disorder, one adult aged 18 is charged with possession of an offensive weapon and another, aged 32, was charged after being wanted on warrant.
A total of 40 arrests have now been made in connection with the disorder in Middlesbrough.
Four adults have been released on bail pending further enquiries, one remains in hospital because of a pre-existing medical condition and seven juveniles were released on bail while enquiries continue.
Mr MacKenzie, from Darlington, began to weep while sitting alongside a dock officer as Chris Tame, prosecuting, briefly outlined the case against him.
Mr Tame said: “The defendant was arrested on suspicion of throwing items, attacking police throughout the day and shouting expletives. He was seen drinking from a can of lager.”
Defendant denies using or threatening unlawful violence
Mr MacKenzie, a director in his father’s kitchen and bathroom business, denies using or threatening unlawful violence and will face trial before Teesside Crown Court on a date to be fixed.
Nick Woodhouse applied for bail on Mr MacKenzie’s behalf, claiming that he had gone into the centre of Middlesbrough “out of curiosity.”
Mr Woodhouse told the court: “Mr MacKenzie was attempting to leave the centre of town and go back to his car but found his way blocked by a police cordon.
“He was told he would have to walk around two miles back to his vehicle, which would have been made difficult as he suffers from a club foot.”
Mr Woodhouse added that Mr MacKenzie was concerned his family business would fold if he spent further time in jail awaiting trial, but he was remanded in custody.
Also appearing at court was Thomas Rogers, 22, of no fixed address, who hurled rocks at police and yelled: “I hope your kids get raped.”
Mr Rogers was remanded in custody awaiting sentence after he admitted being in possession of an offensive weapon – the rocks – and using or threatening unlawful violence.
The court heard he was in a group of 30 people pelting police during the rioting on Sunday.
He later told officers: “I’m glad I threw the rocks.”
Teen accused of carrying axe
A 16-year-old, who cannot be named for legal reasons, is accused of carrying an axe during the mayhem. He is charged with unlawful violence and carrying an offensive weapon.
He spoke in court to confirm his date of birth and address. He was accompanied by a dock officer.
He pleaded not guilty to the weapon offence but did not enter a plea to the other charge.
Andrew Livingston, 53, from Clifton Street, Middlesbrough, denied violent disorder and made no plea to a further charge of possessing a 46cm bladed article.
Shaven-headed Mr Livingston, heavily tattooed and wearing a white vest, looked to the ceiling as he was told he would be remanded in custody until Aug 27 when he will appear again before Teesside Crown Court.
District Judge Marie Mallon remanded him in custody while warning people talking in the public gallery they would be removed if they continued to cause disruption.
Connor Stokes, 26, of Thornaby, Teesside, denied unlawful violence and was remanded in custody after the court heard he was a “main participant” in the disorder.
Mr Tame told the court Mr Stokes, who had been wearing a grey tracksuit and black face covering, had been identified by police as one of a group of protestors hurling rocks.
Mr Stokes called “see you in a bit” to his family as he was remanded in custody by District Judge Helen Cousins.
Possession of offensive weapons
Ethan Bowes, 18, blew a kiss to his mother and father as he faced charges of violent disorder and possession of offensive weapons.
The defendant, from Guisborough, North Yorkshire, pleaded not guilty to possessing a sharp rock, possession of a sock “containing a heavy object” and violent disorder.
The teen, dressed in a black Nike T-shirt, was told he would be remanded in custody. Judge Mallon said: “These offences are too serious to be held in this court and must be heard at the crown court.”
She told the defendant he must appear on Aug 27 for a preliminary hearing.
Ashley Ferguson, 33, of Somerset Street, Middlesbrough, is alleged to have waved a pole towards police “in a threatening manner”.
Mr Ferguson pleaded not guilty to violent disorder and possessing an offensive weapon and was remanded in custody until Aug 27 when he will appear at a crown court.
Jamie Bullock, 20, appeared before the court accused of having a hand in an incident in which a burning wheelie bin was pushed at police.
He was said to have been involved in the incident, with prosecutor John Garside telling the court the accused had “visited the location wearing gloves and a balaclava”.
Mr Bullock, of Berwick Hills Avenue, Middlesbrough, pleaded not guilty to violent disorder.
The court heard he “maintains he did nothing wrong at all – he was offered a lift in a van home”.
He was remanded in custody until his next appearance at crown court on Aug 27.
Police ‘resorted to using leg restraints’
Jamie Govan, 26, who allegedly shouted profanities and kicked out at police during the disorder in Middlesbrough, was also remanded in custody. He denied a charge of violent disorder.
Mr Garside said Mr Govan is accused of shouting: “‘You’re protecting them while they rape and kill kids”, at officers before making “come-on gestures with his hands”.
The court heard he allegedly swung his arms and kicked his legs out at police who “resorted to using leg restraints”.
Mr Govan “maintains he did nothing wrong”, a district judge was told.
The defendant was remanded in custody until his next court appearance on Aug 27.
Lewis Loughlin, 23, of Middlesbrough, was remanded in custody after denying using or threatening unlawful violence in the town’s rioting.
Mr Tame said Mr Loughlin was stopped in a green car which appeared to be involved in the disorder.
Inside they found an empty petrol can, a baseball bat, knives and tools.
Mr Loughlin claimed he was simply “in the wrong place at the wrong time” and had nothing to do with the violence.
He was remanded in custody by Judge Cousins until his next appearance on Aug 27.
Teenager from Darlington thought to be the youngest person in UK charged with terrorism offences
A teenager who downloaded guides to making bombs, and is thought to be the youngest person in the UK charged with terrorism offences, has avoided jail after being sentenced to a referral order.
The UK’s chief magistrate, Judge Paul Goldspring, sitting at Newton Aycliffe youth court in County Durham, said that if the 14-year-old boy had been an adult, he would be facing a jail sentence of up to five years.
The boy, from Darlington, downloaded substantial amounts of material on how to make weapons and bombs and how to start a militia. He expressed admiration for the Columbine High school massacre and came to the attention of counter terror police when, on social media, he talked about blowing up an orphanage.
He had an interest in the far right and posted messages and material that was racist, homophobic, antisemitic and Islamophobic. He was 11 when he downloaded an image of Adolf Hitler from 1933.
The boy told the judge that it was all a fantasy and bravado, and that he would never have carried out the kind of attacks he talked about online.
The court heard that the boy was on the autism spectrum. He first appeared at Westminster magistrates court in January when he admitted three counts of possessing material useful to a terrorist.
The judge said the views expressed by the boy were “disgusting”.
“Just about every minority receives your vitriol, and the terminology you used was concerning and abhorrent in equal measure.”
But the judge added that imposing a custodial sentence would undo all the rehabilitation the boy had achieved over the past year.
Defence solicitor, Stephen Andrews, said the boy had experienced traumatic family events which had taken their toll. “You have before the courts a very complex young man, showing signs of both extreme naivety and vulnerability, at the same time as elements of sophistication.”
Andrews said the boy was bullied and extremely isolated, and the internet appeared to be a way of changing that, a way of making himself “look cool”.
He continued: “All of a sudden, he has an identity. All of a sudden he belongs to something. All of a sudden he is part of a group.”
The judge questioned to the boy directly, telling him that he was taking a risk by not imposing a custodial sentence.
He asked about his interests – football and hanging out with mates – and whether he held the views he espoused online. “No,” the boy replied “It doesn’t matter what religion or race you are.”
Det Supt Matthew Davison, the regional Prevent co-ordinator at Counter Terrorism Policing North East, said the case illustrated how young people can be radicalised in a strikingly short space of time. “Crossing the line from things that can be quite innocent into what can become criminal can be very quick and very short.”
Davison said the pandemic and lockdowns had led to young people spending more time online, alone in their bedrooms, and that was a concern.
“It can be quite a short journey and that’s why it’s so important for families, friends, parents or guardians to be aware of the signs to look out for. They should trust their instincts and act early.
“Our mantra is, the earlier we can act, the more we can prevent people progressing down the road to criminality.”
A schoolboy has become the youngest person in the UK to be convicted of terror offences.
At Westminster Magistrates’ Court, the 14-year-old, who cannot be named, admitted three counts of possessing information useful to a terrorist.
The boy, from Darlington, was arrested in July last year when he was 13 as part of an investigation into extreme right-wing terrorism.
He was bailed and will be sentenced on 1 April at Newton Aycliffe Youth Court.
The teenager, who had been active on racist online forums, was charged last week with possessing information useful to a terrorist, with the offences relating to a period on or before July 2021, when he was 13.
The investigation was carried out by Counter Terrorism Policing North East.
Until now the youngest British terror offender was a neo-Nazi from Cornwall who downloaded one of several terrorist manuals when he was 13 but he was two years older when he was arrested.
The youngest person convicted of planning a terrorist attack in the UK was a 16-year-old boy, also from Country Durham.
Far-Right Criminals 