Man Jailed for Anti-Islam Remarks to Police

A 67-year-old man, David Notley, has been sentenced to 20 months in prison for making inflammatory comments about Islam during a demonstration in London last month. The Inner London Crown Court found Notley guilty of causing religiously aggravated distress and participating in violent disorder. The protest, which took place outside Whitehall, was organized in response to a tragic mass stabbing incident in Southport that resulted in the deaths of three young girls. During the demonstration, Notley was reported to have chanted derogatory phrases, including “you’re not English anymore,” directed at police officers, and questioned the identity of Allah. The protest, described as “far-right,” escalated into violence, with 121 arrests made as demonstrators clashed with law enforcement, throwing bottles and cans. Although Notley did not directly attack police, he was noted for adopting a confrontational stance and pushing another protestor towards officers, which contributed to the ensuing chaos. In court, Notley claimed he did not engage in violence and was merely caught up in the protest atmosphere. However, Judge Freya Newbery emphasized the serious disruption caused by the demonstration, highlighting its negative impact on the community and the parliamentary democracy. Notley’s prior criminal record, including a 2009 conviction for drug smuggling, was also taken into account, as his protest involvement violated the conditions of his release. Notley is among over 1,000 individuals arrested in connection with the unrest that has erupted across the UK following the Southport stabbings.