Bournemouth man jailed for assaulting police officer at protest
Ian Wyn Thomas carried out the attack during a demonstration in Weymouth
Last updated 16th Sep 2024
A Bournemouth man has become the latest person to be jailed following public disorder at a protest in Weymouth.
Ian Wyn Thomas admitted to violent disorder and assaulting an emergency worker at the demonstration in The Esplanade on August 4th.
The 47-year-old of Elliott Road was among an anti-immigration group taking part in the event, organised in response to misinformation linked to the suspect involved in a knife attack in Southport days before that resulted in the death of three young girls.
Dorset Police said Thomas was seen to confront officers, pushing one before throwing a right hand toward their head, which the officer blocked with their arm. He continued to push the officer several more times.
He was identified following a review of footage and other evidence gathered from the protest.
Assistant Chief Constable Mark Callaghan, of Dorset Police, said:
“We recognise the impact the disorder linked to the protest in Weymouth on Sunday 4 August 2024 had on the local community and wider public.
“We have continued to work tirelessly to identify those involved in this unacceptable behaviour and ensure they are brought before the courts to face the consequences of their actions.”
Thomas is the third person to be jailed for their part in the demonstration.
Last month 36-year-old Ian Vetier from Weymouth was jailed for 18 months for violent disorder, while 40-year-old Kevin Searle, also from the town, received a 21-month sentence after admitting to violent disorder and assaulting an emergency worker.