Three jailed for violence at Henry Nowak police protest

Three men have been sentenced to prison for their involvement in violent disorder that erupted during a protest in Southampton following the murder of Henry Nowak. The clashes on June 2 resulted in injuries to 12 police officers and a police dog.

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Local residents were subjected to fear, distress and a genuine sense of danger.

Darren Medhurst, 36, received the longest sentence of three years and three months for playing a "leading role" in the disorder. He was seen throwing items at police and igniting a bin that was propelled towards officers. Medhurst has a history of 51 previous convictions for 96 offenses.

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hate crime, borne out of a hatred of the police and in some cases racist views

Callum Darch, 27, and Harley Haynes, 23, were each sentenced to two-and-a-half years. Darch threw a wheelie bin directly at police, an action the prosecution stated inflamed the crowd. Haynes was captured on video throwing objects, including a brick and glass shards, one of which shattered and showered bystanders. Haynes has nine previous convictions for 21 offenses.

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leading role

Passing sentence at Southampton Crown Court, Judge William Mousley KC stated that local residents experienced "fear, distress and a genuine sense of danger." He reiterated his previous conclusion that the violence constituted a "hate crime, borne out of a hatred of the police and in some cases racist views."

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targeted directly at the police