Two men have been charged after protesters stormed Liverpool city centre on Tuesday night, causing damage to a hotel and shouting racist abuse. The incident occurred around 7pm when more than 100 people gathered at St George's Hall and marched through the city centre, damaging doors and windows at the Richmond Hotel and making racist remarks.
Police Response
Merseyside Police descended on the city centre as the protest unfolded. On Friday, June 12, the force confirmed it received reports that a group of people were verbally abused on Dale Street during the protest. A Deliveroo bag was taken from a motorbike while the perpetrators made racist comments and spat. The protest later moved to Bold Street, where a man was seen shouting racist abuse through a megaphone as he directed protesters through the area.
Charges Filed
Robert James Scott, 46, of Stanley Road, Bootle, has been charged with burglary of a dwelling with intent to cause criminal damage and theft of a Deliveroo bag. He has been remanded into police custody and will appear at Wirral Magistrates Court on Friday, June 12. Jake Patrick Ryan O'Toole-Cluskey, 19, of Hornby Boulevard in Liverpool, has been charged with a racially aggravated public order offence. He has been bailed with conditions.
Police Statement
Superintendent Philip Mullally said: “Our officers respect the right of individuals to peacefully gather and express their views in accordance with the law, however, we will never tolerate any type of racism, violence or criminality on our streets. Officers will continue to be in local areas across Merseyside and the city centre over the weekend and are engaged with communities to maintain public order, prevent crime and protect the wider community.”
Police have urged anyone with information to come forward as investigations continue.
