Christopher Taggart and Rhys McDonald have been sentenced to jail for inciting racial hatred through Facebook posts calling for protests outside a hotel housing migrants. The two men were sentenced by judge Steven Everett at Chester Crown Court to 32 months and 28 months in prison, respectively.
The posts made by Taggart and McDonald included racial abuse and calls for people to protest outside Daresbury Park Hotel, where migrants are being housed. The police became aware of these messages on August 5 and worked to identify and locate the pair, who were arrested on August 10.
During the court proceedings, it was revealed that Taggart has previous convictions for public order offenses, while McDonald had a previous conviction for a public order offense as a youth. Taggart also admitted to possessing an offensive weapon in a private place.
Prosecutor Jane Morris highlighted the seriousness of the offense, especially considering the current social climate and the widespread disorder seen in other parts of the country. She emphasized that the defendants’ actions were designed to stir up hatred and incite violence.
Chief Superintendent Alison Ross of Cheshire Police welcomed the sentences handed down by the court, emphasizing that such behavior will not be tolerated in Cheshire. She pointed out that online abuse and malicious communications have played a significant role in fueling violent disorder in recent weeks, and Taggart and McDonald are being held accountable for their actions.
Ross also issued a warning to others against posting abusive messages online, emphasizing that everyone is responsible for their actions, including what they post on social media. The increased police presence and patrols in response to the defendants’ posts highlight the serious consequences of inciting racial hatred and violence.
The case serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible use of social media and the potential legal consequences of inciting racial hatred online. It also underscores the commitment of law enforcement to hold individuals accountable for their actions, particularly when they contribute to social unrest and violence.