Crayford roofer jailed for violent disorder in Whitehall

Alfie Arrowsmith, 28, of Maiden Lane in Crayford, pleaded guilty to violent disorder after he was involved in the Enough is Enough demonstration near Downing Street on July 31. 

Arrowsmith walked along the police line, squared up to officers and tried to goad them into fighting him by shouting “come on then” and “let’s have it”. 

As he was jailed at Inner London Crown Court on Tuesday (August 20) he blew kisses to his girlfriend and his wheelchair-bound mum who he was a carer for. 

Alfie Arrowsmith (pictured in pink t-shirt) repeatedly pushed against police while shouting come on then (Image: Jordan Pettitt/PA) The demonstration, organised by Daniel Thomas, took place the day after riots in Southport. 

Police imposed conditions that demonstrators must remain on Richmond Terrace and the protest must end by 8.30pm.  

The demonstration grew violent as people broke out of the area while glass bottles and cans were thrown at officers. 

Prosecutor Gregor McKinley told the court Arrowsmith was seen walking against the police line and pushing against officers while others spat at them. 

In video footage shown in court Arrowsmith was seen leaning into officer’s faces while shouting at them. 

Arrowsmith, who has no previous convictions, was arrested at his home on August 16. 

Stephen Nelson, defending, said Arrowsmith had been working at the Ritz on the day of the protest before going to Green Park to drink with friends. 

“The intention was that they were going to join what he believed was going to be a peaceful protest,” Mr Nelson said. 

“He describes that there came a point where the police lines had cordoned them off and he in particular had wanted to leave the area and perhaps displayed his anger in the way which was seen on CCTV, which was entirely inappropriate.” 

Mr Nelson said Arrowsmith is “a young man who is well thought of” and this incident was “wholly out of character”. 

He said Arrowsmith is sole carer to his mum who previously suffered a stroke and is now wheelchair bound. 

Judge Vanessa Baraitser told Arrowsmith: “You deliberately joined in this disorder, placing yourself at the front of the crowd, goading police, providing encouragement and comfort for others to the same.” 

She said it is possible that Arrowsmith thought being part of a large crowd would shield him from repercussions. 

Arrowsmith (pictured in pink t-shirt) claimed he had just come to show his peaceful support (Image: Jordan Pettitt/PA) Judge Baraitser sentenced Arrowsmith to 16 months in prison. 

She told him: “It is not possible to suspend your sentence as appropriate punishment can only be achieved by immediate custody.” 

As he was taken down to the cells Arrowsmith blew kisses to his crying girlfriend and mum.