Man convicted after throwing missile during violent disorder in Darlington

A man who was caught on CCTV throwing a missile during violent disorder in Darlington has been convicted.

Ashkan Kareem was captured on camera throwing a missile towards a group of people in Darlington last Monday evening (August 5).

Dozens of police officers had been deployed to the North Lodge Park area of the town after two large groups of mostly males had gathered, resulting in small pockets of serious violence.

Kareem, of Grey Street, Bishop Auckland, was arrested on Monday (August 12) following a social media appeal and later charged with violent disorder.

The 33-year-old appeared at Newton Aycliffe Magistrates’ Court yesterday afternoon (August 13) where he admitted the offence.

He was remanded in custody to appear at Teesside Crown Court on Friday (August 16) for sentencing.

Abdul Rahman, of Pendower Street, Darlington, was also arrested on Monday and charged with violent disorder.

The 47-year-old did not enter a plea when he appeared before magistrates yesterday. He was remanded in custody to appear at Teesside Crown Court on Thursday, August 29.

Chief Inspector Victoria Cubby, of Durham Constabulary, said: “We have a team of detectives who are investigating the atrocious scenes in Darlington last week and are continuing to identify suspects and make arrests.

“We will not tolerate criminality and violent disorder in our communities. I reiterate to anybody who commits these types of acts, we will tirelessly look for you and deal with you robustly.

“I’d like to thank those people who have come forward with information that has assisted our investigation. If you have information that could help and haven’t yet spoken to us – please, get in touch.”

Call Durham Constabulary on 101, or use the live chat function on our website.

Information can also be submitted anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their website at www.crimestoppers-org.uk