Man jailed after attacking police officer at Brighton counter-demo
53-year-old Ian Ward also assaulted a protestor on 7 August
Last updated 13th Aug 2024
A man's been jailed after assaulting a police officer during a counter-demonstration in Brighton.
Ian Ward, 53, of Old Mill Close, Portslade, was among 1,000 people who'd attended on 7 August in response to planned unrest in the city.
It came amid violent disorder across the UK after three young girls died following a knife attack in Southport.
Sussex Police had separated the protestors and counter-demonstrators, but Ward approached a line of police officers, and pushed one of them.
He also punched one of the protestors.
Ward was later identified using footage from the scene, and admitted to the assaults when he was arrested.
During his interview, he showed no remorse, saying he knew there "would be some follow up."
Appearing before Crawley Magistrates Court on Monday, Ward pleaded guilty to assault by beating, assaulting by beating of an emergency worker, and affray.
He was sentenced at Hove Crown Court on Tuesday to 16 months in prison.
Chief Crown Prosecutor Kris Venkatasami from Crown Prosecution Service South East said:
"Anyone taking part in violent disorder can expect to feel the full force of the law – which we apply equally to everyone without fear or favour.
"This defendant attacked a police officer, who was working hard to maintain law and order on the streets of Brighton in the face of two opposing groups. This was a volatile situation, and Ward’s actions had the potential to ignite things further.
"Anyone involved in this sort of activity needs to understand that there are consequences to their behaviour and the Crown Prosecution Service will continue to work with the police and courts to bring those involved to justice."
Chief Superintendent James Collis said:
"This is a significant custodial sentence that should send a clear message that any acts of violence are not being tolerated, against members of the public or our officers.
"We are committed to facilitating peaceful protests impartially and, where individuals step over the line into unlawful behaviour, we will take action.
"Investigations are ongoing into a number of other reports over the last week as we look to ensure those seeking to sow division in our communities are held to account."