Arrests and charges relating to national disorder

We’re fully committed to preventing any potential disorder in our area and ensuring your safety.

We understand that the recent violent disorder witnessed across the country has been deeply concerning for our communities.

And we do not underestimate the impact this is having, and will have, in the days and weeks to come.

Please rest assured that a united and robust policing response continues to be in place across the country, and here in York and North Yorkshire.

Regardless of who you are, if you are intending to participate or perpetrate disorder, you will be arrested and held accountable for your actions.

As part of our efforts, you will also notice an increased police presence in our area over the coming days. This is to reassure you and maintain the safety of our residents and visitors.

We are also actively engaging with local businesses, faith-based communities, and their leaders to provide the best possible support during this time. Our officers are here for you, so if you see one of them, please feel free to say hello.

Watch a message from our Chief Constable to find out more.

 

Arrests, charges and court outcomes to date 

The arrest and charge of suspects underscores our commitment to tackling violent crime and safeguarding our communities. By acting swiftly, we can successfully prevent potential disorder and violence.

Scarborough

10 August

A Scarborough woman who was arrested on Saturday 10 August has been jailed for six monts for affray and racially aggravated public order offences. Read about the case here: Jail for Scarborough woman who shouted racist abuse & threw shelf unit at police officer | North Yorkshire Police

8 August

On Thursday 8 August, just before 10.30pm, our officers arrested 18-year-old James Martin, from Scarborough, following an incident on Roscoe Street.

He was taken to custody, and charged with racially/religiously aggravated harassment, having an article with intent to destroy/damage property, and obstructing/resisting a constable in the execution of their duty.

He pleaded guilty to all the offences and at York Crown Court on Thursday 22 August he was jailed for two years and two months.

The court heard Martin had been shouting and swearing, and had firelighters in his pocket. He was waving an England flag during the incident - sentencing him, the judge told Martin he had "disgraced" the flag, which "belongs to everyone in this country".

Another suspect was arrested in connection with the same incident. He has been released on bail while enquiries continue.

We are seeking information about a third man, who may have important information that could assist our investigation.

If you recognise him, please call North Yorkshire Police on 101, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, quoting reference number 12240143096.

York

7 August

On the evening of Wednesday 7 August, three men aged 19, 22, and 22, were arrested in Fawcett Street, York. They were charged with possession of an offensive weapon in a public place, remanded in custody, and appeared at York Magistrates Court on Friday.

The 19-year-old pleaded guilty. All three were remanded in custody, and will appear at York Crown Court later this month.

 

Online disinformation

Disinformation has been a significant factor in the violence seen nationally, with many individuals reacting to false or misleading information online.

We urge you to think twice about what you read, share, and believe on social media. There are many reasons why people might spread misinformation, so please rely on trusted sources, and avoid jumping to conclusions.

The individuals responsible for the recent criminality witnessed across the country do not represent the values of our communities. It has been heartening to witness how people are coming together to support one another and their local police forces during these challenging times.

This is how we overcome division—by standing together. We take great pride in seeing our communities united, standing side by side with friends and neighbours against those who seek to create divisions between us.

We will continue to work closely with our communities and partners to tackle crime and keep our streets safe.

If you have any information or intelligence to share, please reach out to us via our website or by calling 101.

Thank you, as always, for your ongoing support during these difficult times.