After returning to the UK from a holiday in Greece, a father-of-three was immediately arrested on the plane for his connection to violent disorder in Southport. Thomas Whitehead, aged 53, was described as being “seen in and amongst the large group” outside a mosque in the town on Tuesday, July 30. His arrest came after his picture was circulated while he was still on the plane, according to prosecutor Rebecca Smith.
During questioning by detectives, Whitehead, a self-employed individual, admitted to being at a public house and throwing an item during the incident but claimed he did not believe it had hit any officers. Despite having 18 convictions between 1987 and 1998 for 47 offenses, Whitehead’s solicitor portrayed him as a family man and hardworking individual who deeply regretted his actions at the vigil.
At the court hearing, Whitehead admitted to violent disorder and was sentenced to 20 months in prison. Alongside him in the dock stood Daniel Carrigan from Anfield, who confessed to consuming cocaine and damaging a police van during the disorder. Carrigan’s defense highlighted his remorse and addiction issues, leading to a 32-month prison sentence for violent disorder and criminal damage.
The judge, Neil Flewitt KC, expressed the severity of the incidents following the tragic events in Southport, emphasizing the need to protect the public and deter such behaviour in the future. The court denounced the violence, vandalism, and intimidation that spread through Merseyside and beyond, resulting in severe sentences for those involved.
Both defendants received substantial prison terms for their roles in the disorder, highlighting the consequences of participating in such disruptive and harmful activities within communities. The court’s decision aimed to address the fear, damage, and distress caused by the events, underlining the importance of upholding public safety and security in the face of such incidents.