Man Pleads Guilty To Rioting Over June 12 Protests

A 21-year-old man has become the first person to plead guilty to rioting during last year's anti-extradition bill protests.

The defendant, who works as a lifeguard, was among those who joined a protest outside Legco on June 12, the day officers first fired tear gas at protesters.

He admitted to hurling objects like helmets, traffic cones and umbrellas at the police cordon outside the Legco entrance.

In mitigation, his lawyer told the District Court that his client had originally intended to take part in a peaceful protest and only started throwing objects when he got emotional.

The defendant added that he pleaded guilty because he realised violence was not the answer, and he wanted to set a good example for other young people.

Sentencing was adjourned to May 15.

Those found guilty of rioting could face up to 10 years behind bars.