A former soldier from Tonypandy has been sentenced for stirring up racial hatred in the aftermath of the Southport attacks. Daffron Williams, 41, from Clydach, Tonypandy, was found guilty of posting racist messages on Facebook between July 19 and August 11 this year. The Cardiff Crown Court heard that Williams referred to “civil war” and hailed Tommy Robinson as a “f***ing hero” in his posts.
Williams, who served in Afghanistan and Iraq, pleaded guilty to a charge of publishing material likely to stir up racial hatred. The court was informed that he made these posts both before and after three girls were fatally stabbed at a dance class in Southport on July 29. One of his alarming posts mentioned, “Civil war is here. The only thing that’s missing is bullets. That’s the next step.”
The judge highlighted the seriousness of Williams’ actions, noting the “serious public disorder” that ensued after the Southport attacks. Williams was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) related to his military service, which served as a mitigating factor during sentencing. However, the judge emphasised that Williams’ posts were intentional and deserving of a custodial sentence.
Prosecutors revealed that Williams had made several racist comments on Facebook, including declaring himself “racist as f***” towards those he deemed harmful to society. He also encouraged action in response to societal changes and expressed support for Tommy Robinson. Williams’ defence lawyer stated that his client’s PTSD was exacerbated by exposure to far-right material online.
Williams was handed a two-year prison sentence on November 18, with the judge recognising his past charity work and service to the community. Det. Constable Georgina Prince of South Wales Police emphasised the consequences of spreading racial hatred online, stating that freedom of speech does not include promoting racial division.
Following Williams’ sentencing, there have been calls for greater awareness of the impact of hate speech and the responsibility individuals hold when expressing opinions online. The case serves as a reminder of the repercussions of inciting racial hatred and the importance of promoting unity and understanding in society. The sentencing of Williams aims to deter others from engaging in similar behaviour online.
The Wales Online article sheds light on the legal consequences of online hate speech and the need for individuals to be accountable for their actions on social media platforms. It also underscores the significance of addressing mental health issues, such as PTSD, among individuals who may be susceptible to extremist ideologies. The case exemplifies the intersection of free speech, public safety, and personal responsibility in the digital age.