A father-of-two has become the first person to be jailed for participating in a protest that turned violent in Portsmouth. Del Somerville, 42, from Paulsgrove, was sentenced to two years in prison at Portsmouth Crown Court after admitting to violent disorder during an anti-migrant demonstration on September 6. His actions included throwing a plastic bottle at police officers and swearing at them, marking him as the first individual to be arrested and sentenced for violence linked to the arrival of a small boat carrying migrants in the city. The incident took place after 114 individuals, described as illegal migrants, arrived in the UK by crossing the English Channel from France. They were escorted to Eastney marina in Portsmouth by the Coastguard and the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI). The arrival sparked local protests, some of which escalated into violence, prompting police intervention. Judge Daniel Sawyer emphasized the need for a strong deterrent in his sentencing remarks. He referred to Somerville as a "thug" and stated that police officers, regardless of their personal views, are dedicated to public safety and deserve respect from those participating in protests. The judge warned that the courts would take action against anyone who assaults officers or disrupts public order. Edward Warren, the prosecuting lawyer, explained that the case stemmed from the unrest following the migrants' arrival. He highlighted the role of law enforcement in managing such situations and the importance of maintaining public safety during demonstrations. The sentencing underscores the legal consequences of violent behavior during protests, regardless of the underlying cause.