Two teenagers have pleaded guilty following a machete attack in Liverpool city centre that left one victim with a slash wound to his arm and swelling to his head. The incident, which occurred at approximately 7.15pm on April 6, took place on the steps of Chavasse Park and was captured in widely shared social media footage showing a group of youths in dark hooded jackets assaulting a target.
Court Proceedings and Sentencing
On Monday, June 8, 2026, 18-year-old Aaron Rodwell, of Knowsley Road in Bootle, appeared at Liverpool Crown Court via video link from HMP Liverpool, where he pleaded guilty to an offence of violent disorder. A second 17-year-old male, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, also appeared via video link from a young offenders’ institute. This youth had previously admitted to charges of attempting to cause grievous bodily harm, affray, possession of a bladed article in a public place, and possession of cannabis.
Judge David Swinnerton has remanded both defendants into custody until their sentencing hearing on August 10. The court has ordered pre-sentence, psychological, and psychiatric reports to assist in the sentencing process, with the judge noting that the court requires the full background of the defendants given their young ages.
The violent confrontation in Chavasse Park prompted screams of “oh my god” and “what the f*** lad” from bystanders as the group of assailants fled the scene on foot following the assault.
Law Enforcement Response
Merseyside Police have characterized the incident as a targeted attack. Detective Chief Inspector Stephen Ball stated that the victim, who was treated in hospital before being discharged, was left very distressed by the ordeal. The police have emphasized that the circulation of the video footage is a concern and have urged the public not to share the clip while the investigation remains ongoing.
The court’s decision to order psychiatric and psychological reports underscores the gravity of the charges and the judicial focus on the developmental stage of the offenders. While the legal process moves toward an August sentencing, the emphasis on the “targeted” nature of the attack highlights the ongoing challenge for authorities in addressing gang-related activity and the prevalence of bladed weapons among young people.
What Happens Next
Following the adjournment of the case, the defendants will remain in custody until August 10. At that time, Judge David Swinnerton is expected to deliver sentences based on the findings of the requested reports. While the judge noted that the adjournment provides no guarantees regarding the nature of the final sentences, the legal proceedings will conclude once the court determines the appropriate consequences for the admitted offences.
Frequently Asked Questions
What were the teenagers charged with?
Aaron Rodwell pleaded guilty to violent disorder. The second 17-year-old defendant admitted to attempting to cause grievous bodily harm, affray, possession of a bladed article in a public place, and possession of cannabis.
When will the defendants be sentenced?
Both individuals are scheduled to be sentenced on August 10, 2026.
What was the condition of the victim?
The victim sustained a minor slash wound to his arm and swelling to his head; he was treated in a hospital and has since been discharged.
How can communities better support efforts to prevent knife-related violence among youth?