Police in Southampton have confirmed charges against two men following violent disorder that erupted in the city after the sentencing of the man convicted of killing Henry Nowak.
The developments come amid ongoing public anger, heightened scrutiny of policing decisions, and a wider investigation into how the original case was handled.
Charges Brought Over Alleged Violence During Protests
Authorities say 50-year-old Matt Styler, described as having no fixed abode and linked to Gosport, has been charged with assaulting an emergency worker following clashes involving police officers.
A second suspect, 44-year-old Daniel Frost of Northam Road in Southampton, faces charges of violent disorder and possession of an offensive weapon.
Both men are due to appear before Southampton Magistrates’ Court on Thursday.
Prosecutors from CPS Wessex said the decision to proceed was based on evidence gathered during the investigation and that pursuing criminal proceedings was in the public interest.
They also confirmed coordination with local law enforcement throughout the inquiry.
Police Officers Injured as Protests Turn Violent
The unrest broke out on Tuesday evening in Southampton following the sentencing of Vickrum Digwa, 23, who was jailed on Monday after receiving a minimum term of 21 years for the killing of Henry Nowak.
What began as demonstrations escalated into violence, with clashes resulting in injuries to 11 police officers and a police dog, according to Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary.
Officers faced projectiles and disorder across multiple locations as tensions spread through parts of the city.
Background to the Case That Sparked Public Anger
The protests were fuelled by longstanding controversy surrounding the circumstances of Henry Nowak’s death and the conduct of officers during the initial response.
Digwa had previously claimed he was the victim of a racist attack, allegations that were later discredited during the investigation.
Questions have since been raised about the handling of Henry Nowak by officers at the scene, including claims that he was restrained despite reporting that he had been stabbed and was struggling to breathe.
The case has now been referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct, which is reviewing the actions of officers involved.
Political Response and Calls for Calm
Prime Minister Keir Starmer addressed the situation during parliamentary remarks, describing the unrest as unacceptable and praising the dignity shown by Henry Nowak’s family during a deeply distressing period.
He acknowledged ongoing questions around the handling of the case but stressed that violence in response could not be justified under any circumstances, warning that those involved in disorder would face the full force of the law.
City Disruption and Rising Tensions
The demonstrations, which initially began outside a police station, later moved through parts of Southampton where damage to property was reported, including burnt bins and vandalised vehicles.
The situation drew a large crowd, including far-right activist Tommy Robinson, adding to the charged atmosphere.
Despite an emotional appeal from Henry Nowak’s father, Mark Nowak, urging the public not to allow his son’s death to be used to fuel division or hatred, the protests escalated into confrontation with police.
Court Appearance Set as Investigation Continues
Both Styler and Frost remain in custody ahead of their scheduled court appearance, while investigators continue to gather evidence relating to the wider disorder.
Meanwhile, senior officials, including Hampshire’s Chief Constable Alexis Boon, have publicly apologised to the Nowak family, acknowledging the distress caused by the handling of the initial incident.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to determine accountability at multiple levels.
