Labour Councillor charged with ‘encouraging violent disorder’ at counter-demo

Labour Councillor Ricky Jones has been charged with “encouraging violent disorder” after attending an anti-racism rally in Walthamstow on Wednesday.

The Crown Prosecution Service authorised Scotland Yard to charge the 57-year-old less than 24-hours after being arrested.

Jones’ case was brought to light after anti-racism protesters were filmed during Wednesday’s counter-demonstration.

The Dartford Councillor will appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court later today.

Jaswant Narwal, Chief Crown Prosecutor for CPS London North, said: “The Crown Prosecution Service has authorised the Metropolitan Police to charge Ricky Jones, 57, with one count of encouraging violent disorder.

“Jones was filmed addressing a crowd in Walthamstow on Wednesday 7 August during which he appeared to make remarks and a gesture to encourage others to act violently towards far-right protestors.

“He has been arrested and charged within 48 hours, and will now appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court this afternoon, 9 August 2024.

“We remind all concerned that criminal proceedings are active and that he has the right to a fair trial.

“It is extremely important that there should be no reporting, commentary, or sharing of information online which could in any way prejudice these proceedings.”

Labour suspended Jones after being alerted to the footage of the outburst.

“This behaviour is completely unacceptable and it will not be tolerated,” a Labour Party spokesperson said.

“The Councillor has been suspended from the party.”

Sir Keir Starmer has vowed to crack down on troublemakers despite widespread disorder failing to materialise on Wednesday.

During a visit to Scotland Yard this morning, Starmer said: “My message to the police and all of those that are charged with responding to disorder is maintain that high alert.

“I’m absolutely convinced that having the police officers in place these last few days, and the swift justice that has been dispensed in our courts have had a real impact.

“But we have to stay on high alert going into this weekend because we absolutely have to make sure that our communities are safe and secure and feel safe and secure.”