18 June 2019 | News

A man who threw a milkshake over Nigel Farage MEP during a political campaign tour of Newcastle has pleaded guilty to the attack at North Tyneside Magistrates’ Court today (18 June).

Paul Crowther, 32, threw the milkshake over Mr Farage as he campaigned in the city centre on 20 May. The milkshake landed on Mr Farage’s face and suit, also causing damage to a remote microphone he was wearing at the time.

Crowther pleaded guilty to charges of assault by beating and criminal damage to property at his first hearing this morning and was sentenced shortly afterwards.

Chris Atkinson from the CPS said: “In an open democracy, people should be free to conduct legitimate political campaigns without fear of physical assault.

“While members of the public have the democratic right to engage in peaceful protest, it is wholly appropriate to bring charges in any case where such protests cross the line into criminal behaviour.

“In this case, the significant volume of video material has enabled the CPS to build a very robust case against Paul Crowther and we would hope that this acts as a deterrent to others considering any criminal form of political protest.”

Paul Crowther was sentenced to:

A 12-month Community Order

150 hours of unpaid work

£85 Victim Surcharge

£85 costs

£350 compensation to Nigel Farage for lapel microphone (£239), suit cleaning, distress and inconvenience.