Man from Merseyside gets longest prison sentence for violent disorder in Southport

The longest prison sentence so far for Merseyside disorder has been handed to a man from Litherland after he was jailed today for four years and two months.

Lukas Allen, 23, of Kirkstone Road North, in Litherland, threw bricks at officers, destroyed a garden wall and then broke into a shop in Southport.

Allen pleaded guilty to violent disorder, burglary and possession of a controlled Class A drug and was sentenced today, Friday 11 September, at Liverpool Crown Court.
Allen could be identified on footage as being heavily involved in the appalling scenes in Southport on Tuesday 30 July.

Officers were able to prove that Allen hurled missiles at officers and then helped kick down a nearby garden wall in order to get more bricks to throw.
Footage later shows him breaking into a shop, which caused significant damage to the front and inside of the store.
A number of people entered the shop and CCTV shows Allen climbing over the counter and taking various items from the shelves.

Detective Chief Inspector Tony Roberts said: “The actions of Allen were absolutely disgraceful and there is no room in society for such violence and abhorrent behaviour.
“Allen not only hurled bricks at officers, but also caused significant harm and fear for the residents and business owners who live in Southport.

“The mindless actions of those involved is perfectly demonstrated by Allen and others destroying a garden wall and causing damage and stealing from a local business. The community were then left to pick up the pieces once the violent mob left the area.

“I think it’s right that Allen has received a significant sentencing and I sincerely hope that he reflects on his appalling actions while he’s in prison.”
The total number of arrests for violent disorder in Merseyside now stands at 126 people, with 88 charged and 67 people sentenced to a combined 145 years and two months.

We would encourage anyone with information to contact us via Public Portal (https://orlo.uk/Azd5K) or anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.