A YOUNG man from Falmouth has pleaded guilty to a charge of violent disorder committed during last year's Bristol riots.

Arthur Lazarus, 23, of Falmouth, Cornwall, appeared at Bristol Crown Court on Monday, June 20 on one count of violent disorder.

The offence took place during last year's Bristol riots which took place in March after a Kill the Bill protest.

A spokesperson for Avon and Somerset Police said: "A 23-year-old man has admitted a charge of violent disorder committed during the riot in Bristol city centre in March 2021.

"Arthur Lazarus, of Falmouth in Cornwall, appeared at Bristol Crown Court earlier today and entered a guilty plea to the charge.

"He’s been released on conditional bail to attend the same court on 28 July when he will be sentenced.

"To date, 17 people have been jailed for offences committed during the riot."

Violent disorder is an offence with sentencing guidelines that range between a community order and imprisonment of up to 4 and a half months.

It has been reported that a large number of people involved in last year's riots were young protestors opposing the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill, which gives police the power the curb peaceful protests.

The decision to charge many of those involved with riot - one of the most serious public order offences - has been described by some critics as "revenge policing," with some accusing Avon and Somerset police of bowing to political pressure.