Police chiefs vow swift justice with over 400 arrested

Forces across the UK are taking a “hard line” on suspects of violent disorder and have arrested more than 400 people in connection with the unrest. 

Around 120 people have been charged and 428 arrests made, with that number expected to rise significantly day by day. 

Police have warned those involved that they face serious consequences, with jail time certain for many. Forces are working closely with the criminal justice system to ensure offenders are remanded and jailed for their actions.  

Some of the measures include remanding suspects who have no previous convictions as a deterrent and minimising or even avoiding releasing on pre-charge bail to ensure swifter justice.  

Chiefs have also asked that those convicted are named and shamed publicly. 

Additional prosecutors have been stood up and are ready to assist forces round the clock and work is ongoing with His Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service to ensure additional space is available.   

Chief Constable BJ Harrington, the National Police Chiefs’ Council lead for Public Order said:

“Our message has been plain and simple from the beginning of this unrest – if you are causing violence on our streets you will face the full force of the law.  

“If you are thinking about joining in, please think twice. You have a choice. This disorder does not have to happen.  

“Forces have now arrested 428 people with over 120 charged and more will be coming in the days ahead.  

“What we have witnessed this past week is plain criminality. It’s dividing our communities, injuring our officers and it needs to stop. 

“Forces continue to make arrests so be warned: if you have played a role, you can expect a knock at the door.  

“Violent disorder carries a maximum sentence of five years and this week a number of suspects with no previous convictions have already been remanded in prison after their first appearance at the magistrate’s court for violent disorder. 

“We have the full support of the Crown Prosecution Service and will be looking to minimise bail and maximise remand and custodial sentences to deter and prevent further rioting. 

“Once again, I’d like to issue a message to communities affected by this disorder. We are doing all we can to end the violence and bring those responsible to justice. Additional officers have been stood up to respond and remain in their communities for extra reassurance and support.  

“We stand with you – we deplore this senseless violence and urge anyone planning on attending a so-called protest with the intent of causing disorder to think again.”  

Kris Venkatasami, Chief Crown Prosecutor and the Crown Prosecution Service protest lead, said:

“The Crown Prosecution Service continues to work side by side with police to crack down on the violent disorder spreading through our streets. 

“Charges – including the first charge of intending to stir up racial hatred - are accelerating and we are already seeing swift justice as convictions continue to rise.  

“There is no doubt, what we have seen in the past week is sheer criminality.   

“We have always been clear: the law applies equally to anyone engaging in criminal activity, and to those who do, will be brought to justice.”