Trespasser claims visit for Prince Andrew and Prince Charles at Parliament
Devon Dorrall pleads guilty to trespassing and faces deferred sentencing
A man who trespassed into the Houses of Parliament previously claimed he was visiting members of the royal family, a court has heard.
Devon Dorrall, 23, from Tilehurst, Reading, Berkshire, pleaded guilty at Westminster Magistrates’ Court to trespassing on a protected site on 30th November.
He was seen unescorted with a visitor’s pass by a maintenance engineer on the way to the Cholmondeley Room, with the worker questioning his presence in the House of Lords.
Dorrall asserted he was a victim of crime and was there with Prince Harry, although the prosecution noted Prince Harry was not there.
The House of Lords worker then notified police.
Previous Court Details
Officers described Dorrall’s behaviour as threatening, with him reportedly mumbling that it was “their fault” and becoming aggressive.
He gave his name and address and said he entered the day before, although the prosecution disputed this claim.
He stated his purpose was to visit Prince Andrew and Prince Charles.
Background and Mental Health
Dorrall was detained and arrested, with previous hearings revealing he was experiencing a “psychotic episode” linked to drug consumption.
He had been sectioned under the Mental Health Act, living at a hospital facility.
Details emerged during the last hearing about his referral to the Prevent programme a decade ago involving a bomb hoax, and he was characterised as displaying delusional traits.
Chief Magistrate Paul Goldspring remarked on the lack of clarity surrounding Dorrall's actions, which Yasmin Eshaghian, defending, acknowledged he may not understand himself.
Dorrall also pleaded guilty to criminal damage after throwing glass bottles at a Be At One bar in Reading, Berkshire, causing £800 worth of damage.
Sentencing and Conditions
His sentencing for both offences is adjourned until 1st December.
Conditions for Dorrall include engagement with the Prevent programme, refraining from further offences, cooperation with mental health services, and residence guidance from mental health services.
Mr Goldspring explained the complexity of sentencing amid Dorrall's mental health sectioning, with an updated mental health report ordered.