A North East man who fled the country after taking part in far-right disorder has been jailed. Jamie Latham was arrested at Newcastle Airport after flying into the UK from Alicante.
The 38-year-old had been involved in the violent disorder that erupted in Middlesbrough in the summer of 2024. He led a march along Linthorpe Road in Middlesbrough before becoming violent towards officers, kicking and punching those on the front line.
Arrest and sentencing
Following his involvement in the disorder, he fled the country and is believed to have travelled to various countries in Europe. In June last year, police received intelligence that Latham was travelling back into the UK.
After flying into Newcastle, he was arrested on suspicion of violent disorder and charged. Yesterday, Latham was sentenced to 33 months in prison.
Police response
Assistant Chief Constable Dave Sutherland of Cleveland Police said: “The level of violence faced by officers here on Teesside in the summer of 2024 was unprecedented. Our officers remained at the forefront of responding to this disorder, and despite such violence, put themselves on the line to protect the public.
“Assaulting police officers is completely unacceptable, and we will never tolerate assaults on our officers and staff who are simply doing their job; tackling criminals and keeping people safe. Jamie Latham fled the country in an attempt to escape justice, but we won’t forget what happened that day to our communities, who were subjected to frightening abuse, criminal damage and violence. Two years later, we remain committed to seeking justice.”
