Three more charged as Southampton protest turns violent over Henry Nowak case
Three men have been charged with violent disorder following a chaotic protest in Southampton that erupted into clashes with police. The unrest began after demonstrators targeted Hampshire Police over their handling of the Henry Nowak murder investigation.
Violence erupted during a protest in Southampton after demonstrators clashed with police over the murder of Henry Nowak, a case that has drawn national attention. Three men—Darren Medhurst, 36, Jordan Hambleton, 19, and Callum Darch, 27—were charged with violent disorder following the unrest, which saw bricks, fence panels, and industrial bins hurled at officers. All three have been remanded in custody and are due to appear at Southampton Magistrates’ Court tomorrow.
The protest began outside Southampton Central Police Station on June 2 before escalating into chaos on St Denys Road. Hampshire Police confirmed the three new charges, while three additional men—aged 18, 34, and 45 from Southampton, and a 41-year-old from Basingstoke—were arrested on suspicion of violent disorder and remain in custody. A 16-year-old girl from Southampton was also arrested and released on conditional bail.
Key Points
- ✅ Darren Medhurst, 36, charged with violent disorder
- ⚡ Protest violence involved bricks, bins, and fence panels
- 💡 Eleven people now charged; four remain in custody
Hampshire Constabulary has faced scrutiny over its handling of the Henry Nowak case, with protesters accusing police of failing to prevent his murder. The unrest has escalated tensions, with demonstrators alleging systemic failures in the investigation. Police have not yet commented on the charges beyond their initial confirmation.
| Age Group | Charged | Arrested |
|---|---|---|
| Under 18 | 0 | 1 |
| 18-29 | 3 | 4 |
| 30-49 | 1 | 2 |
| 50+ | 0 | 0 |
The violence has raised concerns about the safety of officers and the broader implications for public order in Southampton. Hampshire Police have yet to release further details on the arrests or the ongoing investigation into the Henry Nowak case. The next court hearing is scheduled for tomorrow at Southampton Magistrates’ Court.
💡 Pro Tip
If you witnessed the protest or have information about the violent incidents, contact Hampshire Police immediately to assist with their investigation.
The Henry Nowak case has become a flashpoint for local anger, with protesters demanding accountability from Hampshire Police. The violent clashes have drawn comparisons to other recent protests in the UK, where public frustration has boiled over into direct action. Authorities are now under pressure to address both the murder investigation and the unrest it has sparked.
📋 By The Numbers
- 11 — Total charged in connection with protest violence
- 4 — Number of suspects currently in police custody
As the legal process unfolds, the community remains divided over the handling of the Henry Nowak case and the police response to the protests. The next court appearance could set the tone for how these charges are prosecuted and whether further unrest is avoided.