Man jailed for violent disorder offence during 2021 Bristol Riots

This jail sentence makes 32-year-old Richard Fox the 35th person to have received an immediate custodial term - totalling 111 years and 10 months

32-year-old Richard Fox
Author: Oliver MorganPublished 22nd May 2023
Last updated 22nd May 2023

A man has been put behind bars after pleading guilty to an offence committed in the 2021 Bristol Riots.

Avon and Somerset Police say 32-year-old Richard Fox of no fixed address was found in the city centre to be shouting abuse and knocking officers off their feet.

Today (May 22), he has been sentenced to two and a half years in prison for violent disorder.

Police say at 'various times during the day', he pulled officers into the crowd. That's where they were assaulted and had property, including helmets, batons and shields taken.

He also was also spotted kicking officers.

Judge James Patrick, during sentencing, disagreed with Fox, who was claiming that he was trying to calm things down.

The judge described him as ‘violent’, accepted that Fox caused 'modest' injury and damage and described the defendant to have previously been of 'good character'.

To date, 35 people have received immediate custodial sentences totalling 111 years and 10 months in prison following the Bristol Riots.

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.”

Avon and Somerset Police remind everyone that criminal proceedings relating to the events of Sunday 21 March 2021 are ongoing against other defendants and that they have a right to a fair trial.

It is extremely important there should be no reporting, commentary or sharing of information online which could in any way prejudice these proceedings.

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