Two men sentenced after pleading guilty to violent disorder at Aldershot protest

Two men have been sentenced for being part of a group that hurled objects at a hotel and shouted abuse at the people inside during a protest in Aldershot.

Joe Howell, 20, of Bareham Drive, Ash, and Alby Brannan, 18, of Winchester Road, Ash, gathered outside Potters International Hotel with around 200 people on Wednesday 31 July.

Although the majority protested in a peaceful manner, their behaviour turned aggressive and violent. Some of the smaller group were seen throwing objects at the hotel before banging on the doors.

Others shouted racist abuse and acted in a threatening way towards those staying inside the hotel.

During the sentencing hearing at Salisbury Crown Court today (29 November), the court heard that Howell hurled bikes at the hotel. Brannan was seen throwing fireworks, while Howell was part of the group that banged on the doors.

Sadly, one of our officers suffered a minor injury as a result of the disruption.

Officers launched an investigation and charged seven men and a teenage girl with violent disorder. Four men and the teenager have already been sentenced.

Howell and Brannan pleaded guilty to violent disorder and were sentenced at Salisbury Crown Court today (29 November). Howell also pleaded guilty to common assault of an emergency worker.

Howell was jailed for 22 months, while Brannan was jailed for 18 months.

Assistant Chief Constable Tara McGovern said: “We know that the majority of people who attended this protest in Aldershot were respectful, however Howell and Brannan were part of a smaller group that chose to act in an aggressive and intimidating manner.

“Their behaviour that day spiralled out of control and caused fear of violence to those inside the hotel and our officers. Our message is clear – this kind of behaviour will not be tolerated.

“I hope the sentences that Howell and Brannan received today highlight that this sort of behaviour is not acceptable. It is a clear message that these actions have consequences.

“This should serve as a warning to anyone else considering trying to bring mindless violence to our streets and that the minority who seek to cause disorder will face the full force of the law.”