Hull riot: Man jailed for assaulting police officer

Connor Whiteley has been jailed for three years for attacking a female police officer

A man who assaulted a female police officer during a riot in Hull earlier this month has been sentenced to three years in prison.

Connor Whiteley, 26, of Spring Bank, pleaded guilty at Hull Crown Court to violent disorder and assault by beating of an emergency worker.

The court heard the officer was kicked to the ground and sustained injuries to her elbow and forearm.

Passing sentence, Judge John Thackray KC said Whiteley's offending formed part of "12 hours of racist hate and mob-fuelled violence".

During the incident, several police officers were attacked with missiles

During the incident on Saturday 3 August, several police officers were attacked with missiles, a hotel on Ferensway was targeted and several cars were severely damaged.

About £400,000 of damage was caused when the Shoezone, O2 and Lush shops on Jameson Street were looted.

The court heard that Whiteley played a prominent role in the disorder, covering his face with a black scarf and being at the forefront of confrontations with police.

CCTC footage played to the court showed Whiteley throwing missiles at police officers.

The judge said video footage of the riots was "both depressing and horrifying to watch."

In mitigation, defence barrister Oliver Shipley told the court Whiteley was "extremely remorseful" and wanted to apologise to the officer.

A clean-up operation, costing £17,600 to repair and replace paving in the city, is also being carried out by Hull City Council.