Haswell man jailed after undertaking “flying kick” on pub customer during last year’s nationalist riots

A man who carried out a flying kick on a pub customer during far-right rioting in Middlesbrough has been jailed. Jordan Milner, from Haswell in County Durham, took part in widespread violent disorder which erupted in the town on August 4 last year, amid unrest linked to far-right and anti-immigration demonstrations across the country.

Teesside Crown Court heard that Milner was among a large mob who caused extensive damage to businesses and homes as disorder spread through Middlesbrough, with rioters clashing with police, setting fire to a car and chanting slogans including “take our country back”. The violence took place around the same time as similar disturbances in Hartlepool, Sunderland, London and Manchester following the Southport murders.

The court was told a supposed “peaceful protest” had been organised on Linthorpe Road but quickly descended into chaos as missiles were thrown at police lines and commercial premises were attacked. During the disorder, Milner became involved in an assault outside the Intrepid Explorer pub.

Prosecutor Rachel Butt said the victim was standing outside the pub when he was approached by another man who raised his hands in a boxing stance. Milner, who had initially walked past, then turned back towards the pub and delivered a kick to the man, knocking him to the ground. While the victim lay on the floor, a second rioter kicked him in the head, rendering him unconscious.

The victim was later taken to hospital for treatment. Milner, 31, of Front Street, Haswell, was arrested after police circulated video footage showing his involvement in the disorder. He later claimed he had travelled to Middlesbrough to attend an anti-racism demonstration and wrote a letter apologising to the victim. He pleaded guilty to violent disorder.

Paul Rooney, defending, told the court Milner had shown genuine remorse and said he had become separated from friends on the day, finding himself among unfamiliar people. He said Milner did not know why he had acted as he did and described the behaviour as totally out of character. He added that Milner was disgusted with himself and mortified at having let his family down.

Passing sentence, Judge Richard Bennett said Milner had deliberately returned to the scene and attacked the victim. He said: “You turned around and ran at him. He had already been threatened by another man. You delivered a flying kick to his body, which knocked him to the ground. He was then kicked to the face by another man, knocking him unconscious.”
Milner was sentenced to 22 months in prison.