A mother and daughter in Middlesbrough joined in a riot with their dog in tow, resulting in the smashing of cars and other criminal activities. Amanda Walton, aged 51, and Megan Davison, 24, were captured on CCTV causing damage to cars, throwing objects, and engaging in disorderly behavior during the chaotic scenes in the town. Their actions included jumping on a car’s roof, breaking windows, and making obscene gestures towards police officers.
The court heard that Walton brought her chow chow dog to the protest on August 4, where both women were seen holding the pet’s lead as part of a larger group causing unrest on Parliament Street. Walton was spotted throwing a missile and rummaging through a bin, while Davison was observed concealing items and indulging in destructive behavior. The pair later admitted to charges of violent disorder.
At the sentencing, Judge Francis Laird KC handed Walton a 22-month jail term and Davison a 20-month sentence. Davison’s partner, Jake Wray, who also participated in the disorder, is awaiting sentencing after confessing to the same offense. The court revealed that over 250 crimes involving property damage and vandalism were under investigation in connection with the disorder.
According to the prosecution, Davison, a mother of two, had consumed a mixture of alcohol and drugs the night before the incident, which impaired her judgment during the unrest. Her lawyer explained that she had been swept up in the moment and acted foolishly. Both Walton and Davison expressed remorse for their actions, with their defence lawyers stating that they were not motivated by any racist ideologies.
Despite acknowledging their remorse and lack of racist intent, the judge emphasized the seriousness of the disorder and the need for appropriate punishment. Although the sentences could not be suspended, both women were given credit for pleading guilty, resulting in a reduction of their jail terms. Wray is set to be sentenced at a later date.
The court proceedings highlighted the destructive consequences of the riot in Middlesbrough, underscoring the importance of accountability and justice in the aftermath of such incidents. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the impact of rioting and disorderly conduct on communities and individuals involved in such events.