Shane Taaffe-Rhodes was one of a number of people involved in disorder after the Southport stabbings
A student who hoped to become a vet has been jailed for 27 months after he got involved in mass disorder in Blackpool. Shane Taaffe-Rhodes, 20, took part in “an orgy of self indulgent, lawless behaviour” in the resort on Saturday August 3, 2024.
Violent scenes erupted in many parts of the country after three little girls were stabbed to death at a dance class in Southport. In Blackpool, major tourist attractions closed and the Houndshill shopping centre was plunged into lockdown when an angry mob marched through the town.
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In St John’s Square there were violent scenes when protesters clashed with punks who were attending the annual Rebellion festival at the Winter Gardens. Trams and buses were suspended as members of the mob “rampaged through the streets”, Judge Ian Unsworth KC said.
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Taaffe-Rhodes, of Lindale Gardens, Blackpool, said he was “10 out of 10” drunk when he joined in the disorder. He was seen wearing a balaclava and throwing punches as security guards attempted to pull down the shutters on JD Sports, to protect staff and shoppers and prevent looting.
“It was in the Houndshill shopping centre where you played your most active role. You were clearly animated and carried along by the mob. It was utterly disgraceful behaviour and it was cowardly,” Judge Unsworth KC said. “The staff were outnumbered and they were in real fear for their safety. You lifted not a finger to help them.
“You ran away to what you thought was safety. It was only through the swift actions of Lancashire Police that you were apprehended in short order.”
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The court heard Taaffe-Rhodes has no previous convictions and acted “completely out of character” when he joined in the violent disorder in Blackpool. The judge was told he is a student and has aspirations of becoming a vet.