Three members defending in a violent disorder trial

Stuart Bell, Katherine White and Sam Magee were defending in an eight-day violent disorder trial in Kingston-upon-Hull. 

Stuart Bell represented the second defendant (JM), who was charged with violent disorder and possession of an offensive weapon. He was a customer who was recruited by the door supervisor to assist in the defence of the public house and patrons within given the large amount of people outside trying to gain access.

Katherine White represented the fourth defendant (CT), who was charged with violent disorder. He was a customer who became involved having received information that his younger brother was being assaulted outside the public house.

Sam Magee represented the first defendant (ZE) – the door supervisor who was charged with violent disorder and possession of an offensive weapon.

The incident arose at the Mary Rose bar in Scunthorpe. A number of individuals outside were involved in the disorder. Two armed themselves with knives during the incident (including the fourth defendant’s brother to the latter stages).

One person present was slashed, the fourth defendant had his cheek fractured in a number of places.

The first and second defendant asserted that at all times they were acting in defence of themselves, the public house and those inside. Their efforts were to stop those outside coming in.

The fourth defendant asserted that the only violence used by him was in defence of his brother. He was not involved in what was happening either side of the door to the public house.

All five defendants were acquitted by the jury in less than an hour.

The aftermath of the disorder was covered on the BBC and in the Grimsby Telegraph.

Stuart Bell and Sam Magee were instructed by The Johnson Partnership.

Katherine White was instructed by John Barkers Solicitors.