Liverpool parade case: Paul Doyle faces 31 charges over city-centre injuries

54-year-old Paul Doyle faces 31 charges after his car struck pedestrians during Liverpool FC's victory parade, with prosecutors pursuing alleged grievous bodily harm and related offences.

In Liverpool Crown Court, 54-year-old Paul Doyle faces a high-profile trial over injuries sustained during Liverpool FC's victory parade. The case centers on whether his actions met the threshold for grievous bodily harm with intent and related charges in a busy city centre.

Unknown Paul Doyle, who has grey hair styled into a quiff, smiles at the camera while wearing a black suit jacket and open collared white shirt.

Prosecutors allege nine counts of GBH with intent, 17 counts of attempted GBH with intent, and three counts of wounding with intent. Doyle denies all charges.

The defendant, a former Royal Marine Commando from West Derby, broke down in the dock when asked to confirm his name.

The events on 26 May on Water Street left 29 people injured, ranging from six months old to 77 years old.

The indictment also includes dangerous driving and affray, with some counts amended following new medical evidence. Doyle has entered not-guilty pleas to several amended charges.

Seven men and five women were sworn in from a panel of 30; two women were selected as reserve jurors for the duration of the prosecution case.

PA Media A white Iveco van on a road with uniformed police officers stood in the foreground

Judge Andrew Menary KC told the jurors to ignore general public knowledge and social media, stressing that the verdict must rest only on evidence heard in court.

The prosecution is due to outline its case, led by Paul Greaney KC, starting on Wednesday.

The court emphasised the need for a fair trial, and the proceedings are expected to continue as the prosecution builds its case.

Key Takeaways

Jurors instructed to ignore outside noise and social media to safeguard fairness.
Doyle denies 31 charges, including nine counts of GBH with intent and 17 counts of attempted GBH with intent.
Injuries affected 29 people, from infants to seniors, during the parade on Water Street.
Some charges were amended after new medical evidence.
The prosecution's case will be opened by Paul Greaney KC in the coming days.

Expert commentary

Criminal law analyst Dr. Amelia Carter notes that high-profile trials hinge on in-court evidence and careful juror guidance to avoid outside influence. She says jurors must base verdicts solely on testimony and documents presented in court.

Summary

The case underscores the justice system’s effort to deliver fair outcomes despite intense public scrutiny. With 29 victims spanning from six months to 77 years, prosecutors will need clear, compelling evidence of intent and harm. The court will hear both sides as proceedings continue in the coming weeks.