Five teenagers are due to appear in court on March 3, 2026, following a police investigation into disorder at Southbourne Beach in Bournemouth, Dorset. The group was charged after a large gathering of young people on the evening of April 17, 2025, led to reports of fighting and weapons on the seafront.
According to Dorset Police, 18-year-old Devontay Gladstone Butler from Poole has been charged with fighting in a public place, known as affray. Two 17-year-old boys from the same area face similar charges, with one also accused of carrying a hammer and the other found in possession of a class B drug.
The Dorset Police Neighbourhood Policing Team spent nearly ten months identifying those involved by reviewing CCTV footage from the beach area. This work was completed alongside the Crown Prosecution Service to ensure the legal charges were ready for court.
The case follows a long-term effort by local officers to keep the community safe and reassure residents before the busy spring and summer months begin. Police officials stated that the investigation shows they will take action against beach violence, even months after the incident happened.
All five individuals, including two other 17-year-old boys, are expected to attend their first hearing at Poole Youth Court on Tuesday, March 3, 2026.
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