In a significant development related to the far-right riots that occurred in England this summer, a 12-year-old boy has been handed a sentence for his involvement in the violent disorder that took place outside a mosque in Southport. The boy, whose identity remains protected due to his age, admitted to throwing stones at police during the riots on July 31.
District Judge Wendy Lloyd presided over the case and delivered a three-month curfew order along with a 12-month referral order to the young offender. The referral order mandates the boy to engage in a rehabilitative program aimed at addressing his actions and preventing future misconduct.
During the sentencing, Judge Lloyd emphasized the gravity of the riots, stating that they had deeply impacted society. She admonished the boy for choosing to participate in the violent mob that had gathered outside the mosque, highlighting the destructive nature of his actions.
The riots in Southport were triggered following a tragic stabbing incident at a local dance class, resulting in the deaths of three young girls. False information circulating online falsely linking the suspect to being an asylum-seeker fueled tensions and led to the outbreak of violence.
The 12-year-old boy was part of a large group of rioters who set a police van on fire and attempted to breach the Southport Islamic Society Mosque. The unrest quickly spread to other towns and cities across the country, prompting a swift response from law enforcement.
Authorities have been proactive in addressing the situation, with over 1,000 arrests made and more than 800 charges brought against individuals involved in the riots. The decisive actions taken by the police have helped quell the unrest and restore order in the affected areas.