Man (44) jailed for part in Ballymena disorder: Three years for distributing bottles to rioters and lobbing items at police
A 44-year-old seen distributing bottles to people rioting in Ballymena has been sentenced to a three-year stretch.
Gary McCrystal was also spotted hurling bottles at police during the second of three nights of serious disorder in the Co Antrim town last summer.
Rioting first erupted on June 9, 2025, after a peaceful protest over an alleged sexual assault was followed by trouble with masked youths attacking police and damaging houses.
On June 10, what the PSNI now describes as “serious public disorder” broke out around the town’s Clonavon Road.
That night McCrystal was spotted distributing bottles from a bag to rioters, which were then thrown at police.
The PSNI stated the 44-year-old was also seen to throw bottles at officers himself. He was arrested early the following month.
Today Belfast Magistrates Court sentenced him to three years, 12 months of which is to be served in prison followed by the remaining 24 months on licence.
Speaking after the sentencing, the PSNI’s Detective Chief Inspector O’Loan said: “In shameful scenes, there was large-scale disorder by people intent on causing harm. Damage was caused to roads, homes, cars and local business premises with people left fearing for their lives.
“Our officers came under attack and many left injured after petrol bombs, heavy masonry and fireworks were thrown at them.
“At the time, we assured the public that we will work tirelessly to restore calm and ensure that anyone who chooses to take part in this criminality is brought to justice.
“Our dedicated investigation team has worked tirelessly to ensure that those involved are prosecuted. Today’s sentencing is one of many over this disorder.”
The officer appealed for anyone who been the victim of crime, or as any information about offences, to contact police on either 101 or, in an emergency, 999.
“We can assure you that we will always act on concerns and information we receive,” he said.
Reports can also be submitted online using the police’s non-emergency reporting form, or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online at the charity’s website.
Ballymena’s rioting spread to other locations over June 2025, with disorder also seen in Larne, Newtownabbey, Portadown and Londonderry.