Labour Councillor Ricky Jones Faces Court Over Violent Disorder Charges
Ricky Jones, a suspended Labour councillor from Dartford, has pleaded not guilty to stirring violent disorder during an anti-racism protest in east London. The 57-year-old allegedly urged the crowd to violence while speaking in Walthamstow on August 7.
‘Cut Their Throats’ Claims Spark Police Action
The drama erupted after a viral video showed Jones apparently telling demonstrators to “cut the throats” of far-right protesters. This fiery call to action followed a nationwide outbreak of violent protests. Police charged Jones two days later with encouraging violent disorder.
Jones Denies Intending To Incite Violence
Appearing via video link from HMP Wormwood Scrubs at Snaresbrook Crown Court, Jones confirmed his identity and denied the charges. His lawyer, Hossein Zahir KC, admitted Jones used the words but insisted he never meant to spark violence.
High Stakes Case Set For Snaresbrook Crown Court
The case is now classified under the Crime and Disorder Act as Class 1C, meaning it must be heard in a higher court. District Judge Oscar Del Fabbro ordered Jones to submit a defence by October 25. Trial is pencilled in for January 20, 2025, at Snaresbrook Crown Court.
Jones has been a Dartford councillor since 2019 and remains suspended from Labour pending the outcome.
