Teenager jailed for involvement in disorder outside Knowsley hotel

On Friday, February 10, violent scenes were reported outside of the Suites Hotel, on Ribblers Lane.

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A police van was burned out during the disorder (Image: PA)

Violence descended after protests

A protest and a counter-protest were organised at the hotel, which was housing asylum seekers, but later descended into violence as people threw missiles and fireworks at police officers.

A police van was also attacked by offenders before being set on fire.

Police say people who were not a part of the original protest group turned up with the intent of "causing trouble through violence and intimidation".

Following an investigation, Jared Skeete, 19, of Irwell Close, Liverpool, has today (Monday, April 17) been jailed after pleading guilty to violent disorder.

Riot police at the scene in Knowsley (Image: PA)

Police welcome sentencing after 'appalling scenes'

Detective Chief Inspector John Fitzgerald said: “The appalling scenes of that evening were completely reprehensible and Skeete clearly played a role in the disorder. We welcome the sentencing today and hope that he spends his time in prison reflecting on his dangerous actions on that night.

“We will always respect the right to protest when these are peaceful, but the scenes outside the Suites Hotel were completely unacceptable, putting those present, our officers and the wider community in danger.

“Merseyside Police and our partners will not tolerate groups of people targeting this premises and causing fear and distress to those residents inside; and to the local community.

“I hope this sentencing makes it absolutely clear that anyone who plays a part in violent disorder on our streets will be brought before the courts, whatever their role may have been.”