A teenager’s feeble excuse for involvement in rioting was met with disdain by a judge in a recent court case. The 17-year-old claimed he was “going to buy a drink” before a group of masked youths attempted to break into a shop during protests in Bolton town centre on August 4. In what was described as a volatile situation, CCTV captured the teenager wearing a face mask outside the convenience store.
The court heard that police were deployed to maintain peace between protestors and counter-protestors. Despite efforts to calm the situation, a group of youths continued to cause disruption. The boy was part of a group that targeted the AMZ Convenience Store, causing damage estimated between £1,200 and £2,000. The shop owner, who felt targeted due to his race, expressed fear for his safety in a victim statement.
During the hearing, the teenager admitted to criminal damage and violent disorder charges. The judge, District Judge Margaret McCormack, admonished the boy for his involvement. She highlighted the seriousness of the situation, emphasising the impact on the shop owner’s livelihood and the racial abuse he suffered.
In response to the teen’s apology, the judge rebuked him sharply, refusing to accept his excuse. She stressed the gravity of the situation and warned him against trivialising his actions. Despite acknowledging the boy’s difficult upbringing, the judge handed him a 12-month intensive youth rehabilitation order with specific conditions and a fine to compensate the shop owner.
The judge delivered a strong message to the teenager, cautioning him against future unlawful behaviour. She underlined the consequences of his actions and warned him of the potential outcomes if he disregards the law. The teenager left the courtroom with a stern reminder to reflect on his actions and make better choices in the future.