Omar Derbal

Omar Derbal, a 36-year-old man from Astley Bridge, was involved in a disruptive incident on Battenburg Road in Halliwell, Bolton, on May 2, 2024. The confrontation began when Derbal unlawfully entered another man's home, where he was found with a crack pipe and drugs. A heated exchange ensued, leading Derbal to flee into the street, still armed with a screwdriver.

Further altercations occurred outside, including Derbal entering a nearby shop before returning for another confrontation. Witnesses reported a physical fight in the street, prompting the intervention of police officers. During the arrest, Derbal resisted female officers attempting to search him, repeatedly swearing, spitting, and making threats. As detailed by prosecutor Marianne Alton at Bolton Crown Court, Derbal shouted phrases such as 'I kill you when I’m finished' and referred to the officers as 'paedophile nonces' and 'rapists'.

Once detained in the back of a police van, Derbal's behaviour escalated. He pulled down his trousers, exposed his genitals, and performed a sexual act, an incident captured on police footage shown in court. Derbal, who has 14 previous convictions including knife possession, assaulting officers, and a prior exposure to a female prison officer in July 2023, gave no comment during his interview but later admitted to consuming excessive alcohol and two grams of crack cocaine that night.

Derbal pleaded guilty to affray and exposure. His defence, represented by Anna Chestnutt, highlighted his undiagnosed personality disorder at the time and his subsequent sobriety in custody. Judge Kendrick Horne acknowledged the non-use of the screwdriver but condemned Derbal's abusive conduct towards the 'robust and professional' officers. Noting Derbal was under a community order at the time, the judge imposed a custodial sentence and a seven-year notification requirement under sex offender legislation.

The case was heard at Bolton Crown Court, with reporting by Joe Harrigan for The Bolton News. Derbal, appearing on crutches and using an interpreter, reacted with an outburst from the dock, complaining about needing leg surgery as he was led away.