Man Sentenced for Throwing Bottle During Migrant Protest

Del Somerville, 42, pleaded guilty to violent disorder following an overnight protest at Eastney. The court heard Somerville was among a large group demonstrating when migrants were brought ashore by the RNLI after being rescued in the Channel. Some lifeboat crew members faced online abuse after the incident.

Prosecutor Edward Warren stated that Somerville was part of an "initially peaceful and lawful" gathering on Ferry Road. Shortly before 11:30 p.m. BST, he was with a large group of men who were held back by a police line. Police body-worn video identified Somerville throwing a small bottle and swearing at officers.

During a police interview, Somerville claimed he found the bottle on the ground and intended to discard it in a bush, but threw it in the air out of anger. His defense barrister, Helen Easterbrook, said Somerville had been "caught up" in the disturbances and was attempting to be a "calming influence" while throwing the bottle "in frustration."

Judge Daniel Sawyer sentenced Somerville, describing him as a "thug." He stated that the sentence would serve as a deterrent to others involved in subsequent protests in the area, emphasizing that police officers deserve respect and that assaults against them will be punished by the courts.

Four other men are awaiting sentencing, having also been charged with violent disorder stemming from the protest in Eastney. Police officers were present at the scene near Eastney Marina, Portsmouth.