Sign up to FREE email alerts from MyLondon - MyWestLondon News Subscribe Thank you for subscribing See our privacy notice Invalid Email

A teenager who stabbed two men with a hunting knife during the public disorder unrest in Hyde Park last month has pleaded guilty to several offences.

Joshua Clements admitted to two counts of causing grievous bodily harm with intent, one count of carrying an offensive weapon, two counts of handling stolen goods, and one count of possession with intent to supply a Class A drug during a court appearance at the Old Bailey on Thursday (August 25).

Trouble flared in Hyde Park July 20 as an impromptu water fight held during one of the hottest days of the year spiralled into violence.

The 18-year-old defendant from Foxglove Street in Shepherd’s Bush caused serious injuries to his victims, both 19-year-old men, in separate incidents.

One attack took place within the park and saw the victim sustain a stab wound to his abdomen. The other assault occurred close to the park’s perimeter by Cumberland Gate, and saw Clements stab his victim in the chest and both arms.

Despite the seriousness of their injures, both his victims are said to be recovering well.

Some of the Hyde Park chaos captured on camera

Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will start in 8 Cancel Play now

The defendant had attempted to disguise his identity by wearing a face mask covered in a camouflage pattern, but detectives from the Met’s Homicide and Major Crime Command traced Clements’ movements on CCTV, where they finally captured him with is face uncovered.

This image was circulated and Clements was recognised by a police constable attached to a west London gangs unit, and arrested on July 27. A weapon seized at his home was forensically linked to one of his crimes.

'A violent individual who targeted innocent people'

Detective Chief Inspector Nicola Wall, from the Homicide and Major Crime Command, said: “Thousands of people had gathered in Hyde Park to enjoy one of the hottest days of the year but unfortunately amongst them were individuals determined to commit serious crimes.

“Clements is a violent individual who targeted two innocent people, thinking he could evade justice. His victims sustained very serious injuries and I am pleased that the overwhelming evidence against him has persuaded him to plead guilty to these offences.”

He will be sentenced at the same court on October 6.