Eight men have been sentenced following their involvement in violent disorder outside the Suites Hotel in Knowsley, Merseyside, where asylum seekers were temporarily accommodated. The incident, which occurred last year, saw a large crowd gathering outside the hotel and throwing rocks and fireworks at the police.
Ringleader Brian McPadden, 61, of Kirkby, received a three-year and six-month jail sentence at Liverpool Crown Court. Thomas Mills, 47, Paul Lafferty, 42, and Jonjo O’Donoghue, 21, were also sentenced to varying prison terms for their roles in the violence.
Former British Army soldier Liam Jones was sentenced to 27 months, while John Tippler, 59, received a two-year jail term. Warren Cullen, who was on a community order at the time of the protest, was sentenced to 20 months.
The men had admitted to being present during the incident but denied participating in violent disorder. The court heard that several police vehicles were damaged, with a police carrier van being set alight, causing significant damage. Police officers were injured, with one requiring hospital treatment.
The protest was fueled by “ill feeling” in the community following a social media video showing an asylum seeker allegedly approaching a teenage girl. The protest turned violent, with the police having to use protective gear to maintain order and prevent further escalation.
Senior prosecutor David Jones emphasized that while peaceful protest is protected by law, the actions of the men involved in this incident constituted criminal behavior. Residents were reassured that such behavior would be met with legal consequences.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of peaceful protest and the consequences of allowing demonstrations to devolve into violence. It highlights the need for communities to address issues through peaceful and constructive means.
Read More Breaking News
