A 44-year-old man has admitted charges of violent disorder and possessing an offensive weapon during protests in Southampton following the murder of teenager Henry Nowak.
Court appearance
Daniel Frost, from Southampton, appeared at Southampton Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, where he pleaded guilty to violent disorder and possessing a dog lead with a metal carabiner as an offensive weapon. The charges relate to protests that took place on 2 June in the Portswood area of the city.
During the unrest, Frost threw dustbins and a chair at police officers and taunted them with the weapon. District Judge Anthony Callaway deemed the offences too serious for the magistrates’ court, remanding Frost in custody and transferring the case to Southampton Crown Court for sentencing on 16 July.
Background of protests
The demonstrations erupted following the murder of 18-year-old Henry Nowak. Vickrum Digwa, 23, was recently sentenced to a minimum of 21 years in prison for the killing. Public anger was further fueled by the release of police body-worn video footage showing Nowak's final moments.
Frost's defence highlighted his shame and vulnerability, noting that he receives Personal Independence Payment (PIP) due to a serious fall. However, the court heard that he has an extensive criminal record, with 25 convictions for 55 offences.
