Who is Paul Doyle? Liverpool parade accused faces 24 new charges

Paul Doyle, the man accused of driving a car into a crowd at Liverpool FC’s Premier League victory parade, has been charged with 24 additional offences. These include attempted grievous bodily harm (GBH) against two babies.

Court Appearance and Charges

Doyle appeared at Liverpool Crown Court on Wednesday via video link from prison. He became tearful when asked to confirm his identity. Originally, he was to face seven charges related to the May incident. However, prosecutors added 24 new charges to the case.

His lawyer, Simon Csoka KC, asked for more time to review the new charges. Therefore, Doyle was not asked to enter any pleas at this hearing.

What Happened at the Parade?

On May 26, Doyle allegedly drove a Ford Galaxy into a large crowd on Water Street in Liverpool city centre. Over 130 people were injured during the attack. The incident caused shock and panic among fans celebrating Liverpool’s Premier League win.

Details of New Charges

The 24 new charges mainly reflect injuries suffered by victims. Among them are:

• 17 counts of attempting to cause grievous bodily harm with intent

• 5 counts of causing grievous bodily harm with intent

• 1 count of wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm

• 1 count of affray

Five of the injured victims are children, ranging from six months old to 17 years. Two of these children were already included in the original charges.

Court Proceedings

Mr Csoka explained that Doyle had just received details of the new charges and had not yet reviewed all witness statements. Doyle has applied for a laptop in prison to study CCTV footage and digital evidence, but this request has not yet been approved.

Doyle appeared wearing a plain grey t-shirt and was visibly upset during the hearing. Several family members of the victims attended the court.

Judge Andrew Menary KC agreed to give the defence more time, saying the case is complex and Doyle’s access to evidence is limited. The next hearing will be held on September 4.

Prosecution’s View

Earlier, prosecutors said Doyle used his car “as a weapon” during the attack. They claim he deliberately drove into the crowd as people tried to leave the parade.

Philip Astbury, junior counsel for the prosecution, stated:
“This defendant, it is the prosecution’s case, drove deliberately in that car at people amongst that crowd.”

The prosecution also highlighted charges related to dangerous driving before the attack, plus assault charges for the most seriously injured victims.

Summary of Original Charges

• Dangerous driving between Doyle’s home and Water Street

• Two counts of grievous bodily harm with intent

• Two counts of attempting to cause grievous bodily harm with intent

• Two counts of wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm

What’s Next?

Paul Doyle remains in custody. His case continues in September, where he will be expected to enter pleas on all charges after his legal team reviews the new evidence.