Southampton Magistrates’ Court was crowded Saturday when four men admitted violent disorder tied to protests over the fatal stabbing of Henry Nowak, a 28-year-old man killed in the city centre on May 21. The violence erupted during a peaceful demonstration that turned into a night of confrontation with police, who reported being struck by bricks, industrial bins, and fence panels.
The accused men—Andrew Summerhayes, 38, of Romsey; Harry Varney, 34; Taylor Grundy, 22, from Gosport; and Dillon Crawford, 29—all entered guilty pleas. Summerhayes also admitted carrying two offensive weapons in a public place. Prosecutor Robert Salame told the court that Crawford allegedly used large objects, including bins and chairs, during the clashes, while Summerhayes was caught on video throwing bins at officers. Varney was accused of pushing against police shields after refusing to move, and Grundy allegedly wheeled a large industrial bin toward officers.
Key Points
- ✅ Four men admitted violent disorder after Southampton protests
- ⚡ Two others denied charges; next hearing June 10
- 💡 Prosecutor described objects thrown at police including bins and bricks
District Judge Orla Austin ruled the cases too serious for magistrates’ court, transferring them to Southampton Crown Court. The four defendants—Summerhayes, Varney, Grundy, and Crawford—will remain in custody until their next appearance on Wednesday, June 10. Two additional defendants, Kevin Reeves, 31, of Portswood Road, and Andrew Riddett, 38, of Seacombe Green, did not enter pleas Saturday. Reeves faces accusations of throwing a traffic cone and inciting others to join the disorder. Riddett is alleged to have spat at officers and encouraged violence, behaviour captured on police body cameras.
| Defendant | Age | Location | Charges Admitted | Next Court Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Andrew Summerhayes | 38 | Romsey | Violent disorder, two offensive weapons | June 10 |
| Harry Varney | 34 | Southampton | Violent disorder | June 10 |
| Taylor Grundy | 22 | Gosport | Violent disorder | June 10 |
| Dillon Crawford | 29 | Southampton | Violent disorder | June 10 |
| Kevin Reeves | 31 | Portswood Road, Southampton | Violent disorder | June 10 |
| Andrew Riddett | 38 | Seacombe Green, Southampton | Violent disorder | June 10 |
During the hearing, a young person in the public gallery shouted, “Dad, I love you,” as the defendants were led from the dock. Judge Austin emphasized the gravity of the charges, noting that officers sustained injuries and the disorder posed a risk to public safety. A total of eleven police officers were injured during the disturbances, according to reports.
📋 By The Numbers
- 28 — Age of Henry Nowak at the time of his death
- 11 — Number of police officers injured during the protest violence
- May 21 — Date of Nowak’s fatal stabbing in Southampton city centre
Protest organisers had called for calm after Nowak’s death, but tensions flared when police attempted to disperse crowds. Witnesses described scenes of chaos as protesters barricaded streets and targeted officers with makeshift weapons. Police sources confirmed that CCTV and body-worn footage are being used as evidence against the accused.
💡 Pro Tip
If attending protests, keep a safe distance from police lines and avoid carrying objects that could be perceived as weapons. Document any interactions with police discreetly, but never obstruct officers during lawful dispersal.
The Crown Court will now determine sentencing for the admitted offences, with potential penalties including imprisonment. The outcome of the two cases still pending may hinge on video evidence and witness testimony gathered during the investigation.
