Man Threatens Police at Riots

Stuart Bolton, a 41-year-old man from Rotherham, was arrested after threatening police officers during a riot outside the Holiday Inn Express, which was reportedly housing around 200 asylum seekers. Bolton drove for an hour to join the unrest, despite being disqualified from driving. CCTV footage captured him making aggressive threats towards officers shortly after his arrival, where he was heard using derogatory language and boasting about his intentions to harm them. Witnesses reported Bolton's aggressive demeanor as he confronted police, claiming he was merely a bystander. However, evidence presented in court contradicted his assertions, showing him actively encouraging violence among the crowd. Bolton admitted to watching the live coverage of the riots before deciding to join, stating he parked a mile away and walked to the scene with his partner and son. During the court proceedings, Bolton attempted to deflect blame by claiming he was assaulted by police, which he argued provoked his aggressive behavior. However, the judge, His Honour Judge Richardson KC, emphasized Bolton's role in inciting violence and noted that he was not merely a passive observer. As a result, Bolton's Mercedes was confiscated, and he received a three-year driving ban in addition to his existing disqualification, which lasts until April 2026.