Activist Danny Tommo has pleaded guilty to criminal damage after being caught on camera slashing a migrant boat in the English Channel.
The 37-year-old, whose legal name is Daniel Thomas, entered the plea during a hearing at Portsmouth Crown Court on Thursday. Appearing via video link from prison, Thomas admitted to the single charge regarding his actions during a high-seas confrontation that drew condemnation from authorities.
The incident occurred as the RNLI, Border Force, and the French Coastguard were attempting to provide assistance to migrants in a dinghy. According to testimony previously presented at Basingstoke Magistrates’ Court, Thomas steered his own vessel toward the empty rib, which had been left adrift during the rescue operation.
Prosecutors detailed how Thomas armed himself with a knife and approached the rescue scene. As rescue crews moved in to manage the situation, Thomas was captured on video footage using the blade to slash the inflatable boat.
During the incident, Thomas was heard shouting at the scene: “This is what needs to happen to everyone in these boats. Right, you’re on English territory. This is England, this is not France anymore.” He further directed comments toward the rescue personnel and occupants, adding: “Get off the boat, you have time to get off the boat. This is not France. Take them back.”
In addition to the criminal damage charge, Thomas remains subject to legal proceedings concerning his refusal to comply with a police request to disclose the PIN for his smartphone. He has maintained a plea of not guilty to that charge, which falls under Section 53 of the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000.
The severity of his sentence for the criminal damage charge will depend on the financial valuation of the damage caused. Under current sentencing guidelines, if the damage is valued at over £5,000, the offence carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. If the damage is assessed at less than £5,000, the maximum penalty is reduced to three months’ imprisonment or a fine.
Judge James Newton-Price KC, who presided over Thursday’s hearing, has scheduled the sentencing for November 18. Thomas will receive credit for the guilty plea when the final sentence is determined. He remains in custody ahead of that appearance.
The activist, who describes himself as the leader of the “Patriot Platform,” has been a frequent, controversial presence in national headlines, including leading masked demonstrations outside media offices earlier this year. Authorities continue to hold him in custody pending the resolution of his case.
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