The 28-year-old was identified as one of the main instigators ‘throwing rocks and metal poles’
A man from Co Antrim has been sentenced after “throwing rocks and metal poles” at police during disorder last summer.
Bradley Douglas from Ballymena appeared at Antrim Crown Court today, Wednesday, September 9, in connection with disorder in the town in June 2025.
The 28-year-old was sentenced to five years, with 30 months to be spent in custody, and 30 months on licence, after he was convicted of riot and burglary with intent to cause unlawful damage.
On June 10, 2025, at around 8.20pm, police systems captured footage of Douglas “throwing rocks and metal poles” at police in the Clonavon Terrace area. He was identified as one of the main instigators of this riot, police said.
Commenting, Detective Chief Inspector Michael O’Loan said: “On Monday, 9th June 2025 large scale disorder broke out on the streets of Ballymena involving a large crowd of rioters. Further violence then followed across other areas in Northern Ireland.
“Damage was caused to roads, homes, cars and local business premises with people left fearing for their lives. Our officers also came under attack and many left injured after petrol bombs, heavy masonry and fireworks were thrown at them.
“On 10th June 2025 at approximately 8.20pm police systems captured footage of a male, later identified as Douglas, throwing rocks and metal poles at police in the Clonavon Terrace area.
“He was identified as one of the main instigators of this riot – and was the first individual to attack police using masonry, metal poles and bottles. Other individuals joined in and began to act in a similar manner.
“Douglas also entered a property in the same area that had already sustained damage – throwing items from the home at officers.
“He was located by police on 22nd June and arrested for the offences of riot and burglary and subsequently charged.
“Our dedicated investigation team has worked tirelessly to ensure that those involved are prosecuted – today’s sentencing is one of many over this disorder – with a substantial sentence handed down in court.
“We would reiterate our appeal to anyone who has been the victim of, or has any information on, any crime to contact police on 101, or 999 in an emergency. We can assure you that we will always act on concerns and information we receive.”
Alternatively, a report can be submitted online using the non-emergency reporting form https://reporting.psni.police.uk/appeals
Should you wish to make a report anonymously, you can do so by contacting Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org
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