A Carlisle man has been jailed for a social media post encouraging people to target police relating to potential planned disorder in the city.
Stuart Burns, 41, of Briar Bank, has been jailed for 14 weeks after he was found guilty of two counts of an offence under Section 127 of the Communications Act.
Burns appeared before North Cumbria Magistrates Court yesterday, August 29.
The court heard that between August 2 and 6, Burns posted on social medial encouraging people to channel anger towards the police and destroy police vehicles and equipment.
Chief Superintendent Carl Patrick, of Cumbria police, said: “This sentence makes clear those inciting violence online will face the consequences.
“Burns encouraged people to target the police. Our officers should not come to work with the fear of being assaulted and the majority of the public understand this and show respect to the police as they go about their important work to keep people safe.
“Targeting officers not only has a significant impact on the officers concerned and their families, but this means they are removed from the front-line work. Targeting vehicles, putting strain on our ability to respond to emergency incidents, when people are in need.
“Where there is evidence of people inciting hatred or promoting violence on our streets, our officers will not hesitate to take action.”
