Ninth teenager charged over Southend disorder
It happened around the seafront last month
A ninth teenager has been charged in connection with an incident of disorder in Southend last month.
Eight people remain remanded in custody, to appear at Basildon Crown Court on 2 September following the incident on 30 July.
Officers say they responded quickly and robustly to reports of people with weapons, making arrests within minutes.
A ninth person, a 17 year-old from Woodford Green, was arrested yesterday morning (Tuesday 20 August) and has now been charged with GBH with intent, possession of a bladed article, and violent disorder.
He is due to appear at Southend Magistrates’ Court today (Wednesday 21 August).
Chief Superintendent Leighton Hammett said: “On July 30 officers responded quickly and robustly following reports of people with weapons, making arrests within minutes.
“Eight people were arrested and charged at the time but the investigation into this incident has not stopped there.
“We continue to work to identify, locate, and arrest anyone involved in those incidents and will pursue them relentlessly.
“I want to re-iterate that this was an isolated incident and Southend is a really safe place to live, work and visit.
“We’re getting prepared to welcome thousands of you to enjoy our beautiful seafront, world famous pier, and fantastic attractions this Bank Holiday weekend.
“We’ll have officers visible across the city as well as deploying Live Facial Recognition technology.
“So please come here and enjoy yourself and we’ll ensure you can do that safely.
“If anyone is thinking of coming here to commit crime, be in no doubt that you will be dealt with.”