Merseyside Police apprehended a 35-year-old man at Manchester Airport on Monday, 24 March, following his arrival from Spain. This arrest forms part of an ongoing investigation into violent disorder that occurred in Southport last summer, specifically following a series of unfortunate events rooted in the stabbings of three schoolgirls during a Taylor Swift-themed dance class.
The arrested individual, who resides in Wigan, is suspected of involvement in the disorder, wherein he was allegedly witnessed "throwing missiles at officers," as noted by police. He has since been released on bail, albeit with certain conditions, pending further inquiries. A statement from Merseyside Police confirmed the details surrounding the arrest and reiterated their commitment to addressing the violence that marked last year’s incidents.
Detective Inspector Paula Jones remarked, “We have made 185 arrests and charged 146 people in connection with violence and disruption which damaged our communities on Merseyside.” The incidents have led to a broader crackdown, with ongoing assessments of images and footage to identify other individuals involved in the turmoil.
Additionally, Axel Rudakubana, who was implicated in the original stabbings of the schoolgirls, has been sentenced to life imprisonment, with a minimum term of 52 years, for his actions on 29 July. This conviction is part of the aftermath of the violence that ensued, where police faced aggressive confrontations from crowds.
In a related development, Liverpool Crown Court recently handed down sentences to two other individuals connected to the same violent episodes. Thomas Birchmore, 31, was convicted for kicking a police van during the unrest and received a two-year prison term. Gavin O’Connor, aged 46, was sentenced to two years and eight months for throwing missiles at law enforcement officers. Detective Inspector Paula Jones highlighted the cumulative impact of these sentences, noting that the total prison term for individuals charged so far amounts to 237 years.
The Merseyside Police encourage the public to provide tips or information related to the disorder through their public portal or anonymously via Crimestoppers as they continue to navigate the complexities of the case.
Source: Noah Wire Services