Paul Doyle Admits Guilt to 31 Liverpool Parade Charges
Paul Doyle has pleaded guilty to 31 charges stemming from an incident during a Liverpool FC victory parade. The 54-year-old admitted to dangerous driving, affray, along with multiple counts of attempting to cause grievous bodily harm (GBH) and wounding. This event, which transpired on May 26, resulted in injuries to over 130 individuals.
Incident Details
The incident occurred shortly after 18:00 on Water Street, as thousands celebrated. Doyle drove his Ford Galaxy Titanium into a dense crowd, striking over 100 people, including children. Witnesses described seeing victims trapped under the vehicle, leading to significant injuries.
Court Proceedings
Doyle appeared at Liverpool Crown Court, where he sobbed as he changed his plea on the second day of his trial. The prosecutor characterized the driving as “an act of calculated violence.” The prosecutor noted that Doyle had shown increasing agitation towards the crowds before deliberately driving into them.
Charges Faced by Paul Doyle
- Dangerous Driving
- Affray
- 17 counts of attempting to cause GBH with intent
- 9 counts of causing GBH with intent
- 3 counts of wounding with intent
All charges relate to a victim group spanning ages from six months to 77 years old. Doyle’s actions have had a lasting impact on the victims, both physically and psychologically.
Sentencing and Future Proceedings
The Recorder of Liverpool, Andrew Menary KC, indicated that Doyle is likely to receive a lengthy custodial sentence. A two-day hearing has been set for December 15 and 16. Following the hearing, Liverpool City Council announced an independent review into the events surrounding the incident.
Community Reaction
Police highlighted the dangerous nature of Doyle’s actions, with Det Ch Insp John Fitzgerald asserting that it was a stroke of luck that there were no fatalities. The day intended as a celebration had swiftly transformed into chaos, leaving many in distress.
Doyle, a former Royal Marine, expressed remorse during earlier court appearances. The upcoming hearings may further address the full extent of the incident’s repercussions on the community.
