Liverpool Parade Incident: Paul Doyle Set for Jail Time After Pleading Guilty to 31 Charges
Paul Doyle, 54, faces serious consequences after pleading guilty to 31 charges related to the tragic incident at the Liverpool parade in May. The charges include dangerous driving and several counts of grievous bodily harm.
Liverpool Parade Incident: Overview of Charges
Doyle’s guilty plea includes:
- Nine counts of causing grievous bodily harm (GBH) with intent.
- Seventeen counts of attempting to cause GBH.
- Three counts of wounding with intent.
Prosecutors highlighted that Doyle’s decision to plead guilty followed a thorough investigation that involved reviewing CCTV and dashcam footage. Initially, he had pleaded not guilty.
Sentencing Details
Judge Andrew Menary KC has set a two-day sentencing for December 15. Doyle has been remanded in custody and warned that he should prepare for a significant custodial sentence.
Impact of the Incident
The incident, which occurred on May 26, resulted in injuries to over 130 individuals. Victims ranged in age from six months to 77 years. Prosecutors stated that Doyle transformed a day of celebration into chaos, endangering innocent lives.
Chief Crown Prosecutor Sarah Hammond emphasized the severe impact of Doyle’s actions, stating, “This attack did not just harm individuals – it struck at the heart of a city united in joy.”
Community Reactions
In a statement released by Liverpool FC, the club expressed hope that Doyle’s conviction would bring peace to the victims of the incident. They thanked emergency services and bystanders who acted bravely during the crisis, noting their efforts likely saved lives.
Merseyside Police also commented on the incident, with Detective Chief Inspector John Fitzgerald saying, “It is only by sheer luck that nobody was killed due to Doyle’s reckless actions.” The police acknowledged the lasting physical and psychological impact on many affected by the event.
Change of Pleas
The change in Doyle’s plea came unexpectedly during a jury selection for his trial. When asked to reaffirm his pleas, he broke down in tears and accepted his responsibilities for the charges linked to the devastating day in May.
