Kicking and pushing at police shields during a Bristol Kill the Bill riot cost a Montpelier man two-and-a-years' jail. Richard Fox, who was said to be of 'exemplary' previous good character, was due to face trial in a week's time.
But the 32-year-old, of Picton Street, pleaded guilty to violent disorder after a prolonged skirmish between police and protesters outside Bridewell police station on March 21, 2023. He was sentenced at Bristol Crown Court today (May 22, 2023).
Judge James Patrick, who has retained custody of the riot cases, told him: "You were playing an encouraging role, trying to encourage others. You were violent towards the police."
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The initially peaceful protest was against the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts bill, proposing to give extended power to police to shut down demonstrations. But as the day wore on there were clashes between police and protesters outside Bridewell Police Station. People were injured in the melee, including 44 police officers, and at least £212,000 worth of damage was caused to police property, including by fire.
David Sapiecha, prosecuting, told the court Fox participated in violent disorder in separate incidents within a 90-minute timeframe. He said Fox shouted, pushed at police lines, tried to frighten a police horse and kicked and attacked police shields.
Russell Fraser, defending, said what happened was wholly out of character for his client. He said it was not accepted that Fox was trying to scare horses.
Mr Fraser told the court his client's actions were often reactive. Mr Fraser said: "He wished to stay with others and expressed concern for others who were there."
The court heard Fox had done positive work for Bristol and the wider community, including work which attracted funding from the Arts Council.
To date, 35 people have received immediate custodial sentences totalling 111 years and 10 months. Detective Superintendent James Riccio said: “Richard Fox sought to push, shove and kick officers.
"The wealth of evidence caught on their bodyworn’ cameras has helped lead to a guilty plea for violence disorder. There can be no excuse for wanton disorder and it is only right those responsible for the shameful night of violence witnessed in March 2021 are sentenced accordingly.”
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