Jail for man who yelled homophobic abuse at Chatham protest

A man who yelled homophobic abuse at police officers during a protest in Chatham has become the first person in Kent to be jailed following the recent spate of national disorder.

Daniel Baldock was asked by police to disperse at Wednesday night’s (7 August) protest, but resisted those requests, before yelling homophobic abuse at police officers on several occasions.

Baldock’s defence solicitors claimed in court that he was not aware there would be protests in the area, but he was told by Thanet Magistrates today (Friday 9 August) that he knew “damn well” they were happening and, even if he did not plan on being part of them, he still attended.

Less than 48 hours after the original incident, Baldock was sentenced to a total of 14 weeks imprisonment, increased from the original sentence of 12 weeks, because of the homophobic nature of the crime.

Chief Crown Prosecutor Kris Venkatasami from Crown Prosecution Service South East said: “This sentencing sends out a robust message to anyone abusing our police, who are currently working so hard to maintain law and order during this recent spell of disorder.

“Homophobic abuse and any action that makes the job of the police more difficult are both unacceptable. The substantial sentence handed out today shows how seriously the criminal justice system is taking all crimes related to disorder.

“Anyone involved in such activity needs to understand that there are consequences to their behaviour and the Crown Prosecution Service will continue to work with the police and courts to bring those involved to justice.”