A former nursery worker, who hurled racial abuse and struck out at a police officer’s riot shield during violent scenes, has been remanded in custody and warned she could face jail time. Ellie Clarke, a 21-year-old from Southport, sat with her head bowed in the dock as bodycam footage of the incident was played out in court. The incident took place following the fatal stabbings of three young children in July, leading to violent outbursts in Southport.
The court heard that a crowd had gathered in the area, chanting offensive phrases and hurling missiles towards the police officers. Clarke, described as being “at the front of the mob,” verbally abused the officers and aggressively pushed at their riot shields. She later admitted that “adrenaline got the better of [her]” and expressed shame over the language she used during the incident.
Clarke pleaded guilty to charges of violent disorder, racially aggravated harassment, and assaulting an emergency services worker. Despite having no prior convictions, she was remanded in custody until her sentencing date in October. Her defence counsel highlighted her mental health issues and minimal involvement in the incident, emphasizing that she was not part of any violent disorder.
The Honorary Recorder of Liverpool expressed that a custodial sentence would be likely if the defendant was to be sentenced at that time, pending the preparation of a psychiatric report. The case has been adjourned to allow for this report to be compiled before the new sentencing date. Clarke’s actions during the riot have raised concerns and drawn attention to the consequences of participating in violent and discriminatory behaviour.