A Hell's Angel who took part in a violent city centre protest in opposition to a Black Lives Matter demonstration has been spared prison due to his ill-health.
Supporters of Black Lives Matter gathered for a peaceful protest at Grey's Monument, in Newcastle city centre, on Saturday June 13 2020 and at the same time a number of groups, including the North East Frontline Patriots, decided to gather in the same place at the same time for a counter protest.
Newcastle Crown Court heard that from 2pm onwards some of those involved became hostile and objects were thrown, including glass bottles and smoke grenades. Gary Richardson was first seen at 2pm standing shoulder to shoulder with other members of the Hell's Angels and positioned himself at the front of the group, facing down Grey Street.
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Police tried to move the protesters back and officers came under sustained attack with bottles and other missiles being thrown. Jolyon Perks, prosecuting, said: "The defendant offered physical resistance and pushed the police officer with both hands. The police began struggling with the crowd and the disorder escalated.
"The crowd surged forward and this defendant and another man can be seen pushing against the police, helped by other members of the Hell's Angels."
When police tried to restrain another man, they were prevented from doing so by Richardson and others. Even when police dogs and the mounted section were sent in, Richardson refused to budge, standing with his hands out between the horses, seeking to obstruct their movement, the court heard.
He continued to refuse to move and pushed back at police and prevented the lawful detention of the other man. In doing so he recklessly struck a PC in the face, causing pain to his lower lip.
There was then a further outbreak of violence, during which Richardson was repeatedly asked to move back but refused to do so then ran forcefully at the police line, shouting and swearing and breaking through it.
After being arrested he said "Fair enough I'm not going to cause you any more issues".
Richardson, 51, of Gloucester Lodge Cottages, Links Road, between Seaton Sluice and Blyth, was sentenced to two years suspended for two years, with a three month curfew, after admitting violent disorder.
Judge Edward Bindloss said he was taking the "exceptional" decision to suspend the sentence due to Richardson's medical conditions.
Susannah Proctor, defending, said he has a life-changing liver disease, along with diabetes and anxiety. She added that he has lost a lot of weight and is at constant risk of blood clots.
Miss Proctor told the court: "At some points he is trying to calm others. This is something that's out of character for him. He is wholly of good character and this offence is over two years ago.
"He very much regrets his actions, he has outlined that in his letter." The court heard he used to run a food business and has organised charity events in Blyth."
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