Second riot charge brought as disorder suspects await news on upgraded charges

A second riot charge has been brought by police as violent disorder suspects across the country await news on whether they will be accused of the more serious offence.

Northumbria Police said on Friday that Kieran Usher had become their second suspect to be charged with riot in connection with disorder in Sunderland city centre on August 2.

It followed the force’s announcement that a 15-year-old boy had been charged with the more serious offence after having previously pleaded guilty to violent disorder and burglary on Saturday.

The teenager appeared in court on Thursday and his case was adjourned following what a district judge called a “surprise” charging decision.

Riot is an offence that carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison – double that of a charge of violent disorder.

Usher, 32, of Sunderland, was arrested on Thursday and is due to appear at South Tyneside Magistrates’ Court on Friday, the force said.

Gale Gilchrist, chief crown prosecutor for CPS North East, said: “This defendant is one of a number of individuals who we expect will be charged with riot.”

He will appear alongside 58-year-old David Hann, who is accused of a racially aggravated public order offence.

Elsewhere, Andrew McIntyre pleaded not guilty to charges of encouraging murder, encouraging violent disorder and possession of a bladed article at Liverpool Crown Court.

Chris Taylor, prosecuting, confirmed to Judge Neil Flewitt that “in simple terms” the suggestion was that McIntyre was the administrator on an online group.

In Hull, a man who looted cosmetics chain Lush during riots in the city is due to be sentenced for violent disorder, burglary and racially aggravated criminal damage.

John Honey’s sentencing hearing was previously adjourned after claims he asked a prison probation officer “if he wanted his autograph as he is famous and is all over social media”.

Charges of stirring up racial hatred also continue to be brought before the courts across the country, with Wayne O’Rourke due to appear at Lincoln Crown Court.

Geraint Boyce and Daffron Williams are due to be sentenced at Merthyr Tydfil Crown Court for publishing threatening material on a Facebook account intending to stir up religious hatred.

Sentencing hearings for violent disorder are due to take place in a number of different cities, including Bristol, Plymouth and Newcastle.

Published: 16/08/2024 by Radio NewsHub