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Lucy Connolly, 41, partner of Conservative West Northamptonshire councillor Raymond Connolly, is expected to appear in Northampton Crown Court on charges related to inciting racial hatred through her online activities.
Connolly has been denied bail and remains in custody as she faces allegations concerning a social media post that reportedly incited violence against asylum seekers.
During the court proceedings, it was presented that Connolly, who resides on Parkfield Avenue in Northampton, made incendiary comments on X (formerly Twitter) on the day of the tragic Southport stabbings, including statements advocating for mass deportations and violent actions against hotels housing asylum seekers.
This incident occurs amid widespread unrest across the UK attributed to far-right groups, resulting in an alarming number of arrests—over 900—with 466 individuals now facing charges linked to the civil disorder.
In Rotherham, South Yorkshire, violence erupted as a far-right mob attempted to set fire to an establishment believed to be sheltering asylum seekers, mirroring clashes reported in other cities such as Liverpool, Newcastle, and Birmingham, where individuals faced charges for a variety of offenses, including theft and violent disorder.
Key Points
Wife of Conservative councillor to appear in court for racial incitement
Three individuals to face charges following Belfast riots
Total of 900 arrests made with 466 charged related to civil unrest
Call by Yvette Cooper for restoration of respect for police following civil disorder
Archbishop of Canterbury condemns far-right actions as contrary to Christian teachings
Man charged with assaulting emergency worker in Brighton
11:18, Salma Ouaguira
A man has been charged in connection with the assault of an emergency worker during a counter-protest in Brighton.
Ian Ward, 53, from Old Mill Close in Portslade, faces multiple charges including common assault, and is scheduled to appear at Crawley Magistrates’ Court.
Sussex Police have reiterated their commitment to maintaining a visible presence in the area, encouraging the public to report any concerns.
Clarification on cabinet minister’s statement regarding rioters
11:15, Salma Ouaguira
A cabinet minister’s assertion that those involved in the recent riots would not be released early from incarceration has faced swift correction.
Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds initially stated that no rioters would benefit from a release scheme aimed at alleviating prison overcrowding; however, his office later clarified that he had made an error.
The government, in light of prior overcrowding issues attributed to previous administrations, is considering strategies for early inmate release, sparking concerns regarding the handling of those involved in recent violent protests.
Demands for increased safety measures from anti-racism Muslim group
11:00, Salma Ouaguira
An influential anti-racist Muslim organization is calling for stronger government action against gender-based Islamophobia amid a series of riots across the UK, which have put many in Muslim communities on high alert.
Known as “The Three Hijabis,” activists Shaista Aziz, Amna Abdullatif, and Huda Jawad report that they have received numerous accounts from Muslim women fearing for their safety during these tumultuous times. They highlight that incidents of harassment have become more frequent, particularly targeting women who wear hijabs.
Despite the government’s public commitment to support women’s rights, there is currently an absence of a dedicated strategy to protect Muslim women from escalating violence.
Prosecutor warns of lengthy sentences for violent protesters
10:45, Salma Ouaguira
The director of public prosecutions has cautioned that severe penalties, potentially up to ten years, could be imposed on those charged with rioting.
Stephen Parkinson indicated that forthcoming court appearances would involve more serious charges than those previously filed, which often only included violent disorder.
A wave of new legal actions is anticipated as authorities seek to address the ongoing unrest and the culpability of those involved.
Archbishop speaks out against far-right violence
10:30, Salma Ouaguira
The Archbishop of Canterbury has denounced actions carried out by far-right groups, labeling them as “unchristian” in nature, and condemned their exploitation of religious symbols during recent upheavals.
Justin Welby issued a clear message urging Christians to dissociate from extremist groups, emphasizing that their actions contradict the core values of Christianity. He ascribed the violence to misinformation fueled by negative rhetoric from both media and political circles.
First juvenile conviction for violent disorder in Sunderland
10:15, Salma Ouaguira
A 15-year-old boy has been charged with violent disorder in Sunderland, marking a significant legal development as he is the first child to face such a charge in this context.
Following his arrest amidst a series of police raids, he admitted to charges of violent disorder and burglary, and will return to court to continue the legal proceedings.
Education reforms to include fake news awareness
10:00, Salma Ouaguira
In response to recent civil disturbances, educational authorities are set to update the curriculum to enhance children’s understanding of discerning extremist content and identifying misinformation.
The education secretary emphasized that the initiative will be integrated across various subjects, aiming to equip young learners with critical thinking skills essential for navigating the digital information landscape.
Actions taken against threats made on social media
09:45, Salma Ouaguira
A 30-year-old man has been apprehended by West Midlands Police following threats made in a video circulated online.
Law enforcement urged the public to remain vigilant and report any content promoting racial hatred or inciting violence.
Arrests made regarding mosque attack in Newtownards
09:30, Salma Ouaguira
A 42-year-old man faces charges following a petrol bomb attack on a mosque in Newtownards, which was accompanied by vandalism.
The attack has drawn widespread condemnation, with local leaders calling it an egregious act against community values.
Condemnation from Northern Ireland’s leadership after riots
09:15, Salma Ouaguira
In light of the violent incidents in Londonderry involving attacks on police, Secretary of State Hilary Benn has expressed his outrage and gratitude towards law enforcement efforts.
Continued legal actions and statements following unrest
09:10, Salma Ouaguira
In response to ongoing disturbances, multiple individuals have been arrested and charged for their involvement in riots across various cities.
Call for police respect from Home Secretary
09:01, Salma Ouaguira
Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has stressed the importance of restoring respect for law enforcement in the aftermath of recent riots and highlighted the necessity of upholding the rule of law. She indicated a firm stance against any abuse directed towards the police.
Latest national statistics on arrests and charges
09:00, Salma Ouaguira
The National Police Chief’s Council has disclosed that a total of 927 arrests have been made nationwide, with ongoing investigations resulting in 466 individuals facing charges.
Court cases related to Belfast riots
08:58, Salma Ouaguira
Three men are set to appear in court regarding the recent rioting in Belfast, facing multiple serious charges that reflect the gravity of the unrest.
Upcoming court appearances linked to incitement by a Tory councillor’s wife
08:46, Salma Ouaguira
Lucy Connolly, partner of a Conservative councillor, is expected in court to answer charges related to her inflammatory social media posts against asylum seekers, potentially facing significant legal repercussions.
Source
www.yahoo.com