Portsmouth Protester Charged Under New Law

Police Enforce New Powers

A 76-year-old man has been charged with concealing his identity at a protest in Portsmouth, as Hampshire Police enforce new powers under the Crime and Policing Act.

Timothy Miller, of Sherwood Avenue in Hedge End, is due to appear before Portsmouth magistrates on Monday.

The charge comes after police warned they would arrest demonstrators using face masks or coverings during protests in the city centre on Saturday.

Rival Demonstrations Kept Apart

Rival sets of protesters, including several hundred anti-migrant demonstrators and anti-racism groups, were kept apart by police in Guildhall Square.

The protests followed a previous incident on September 6, when demonstrators blocked roads in an attempt to stop coaches carrying migrants from leaving the city.

Additional Charges and Arrests

David McNally, 33, from Winchester Road, Portsmouth, was charged with obstructing the highway and attempted criminal damage. He is due in court on October 29.

A 16-year-old male from Waterlooville was also arrested on suspicion of violent disorder related to the earlier incident at Eastney Marina.

Del Leon Somerville, 42, from Paulsgrove, appeared in court on Saturday charged with violent disorder and assaulting a police officer at the Eastney protest.

A Balancing Act

The police’s use of new powers to prevent protesters from concealing their identities is a delicate balancing act. While it’s essential to maintain public order and safety, it’s also crucial to respect the right to peaceful protest.

As the legal process unfolds, the focus remains on ensuring a fair and just outcome for all involved.