Antrim Crown Court jails 20-year-old man over Ballymena rioting
Antrim Crown Court has jailed a 20-year-old man for rioting and other offences in Ballymena last summer.
Calum Bell (20) from Ballymena, was today sentenced to 60 months – with half this time to be spent in custody and half on licence – after being convicted of riot, intentionally encouraging or assisting riot, and burglary with intent to cause unlawful damage.
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 were left injured after petrol bombs, heavy masonry and fireworks were thrown at them.
“On Monday, 9th June, Bell was seen building a barricade using green safety barriers on the Clonavon Road, before leading a group down the rear of properties on the Clonavon/Waveney Road. He then pointed at a property and proceeded to throw masonry at the house, along with others in the group, before running back to Clonavon.
“Bell was also seen breaking up a piece of masonry into smaller pieces and, while in a large group, the door of a property was forced open and Bell went inside for a period of time. The crowd then moved off, with Bell subsequently then leaving the property and running down Waveney Road.”
Following the release of his image by police, as part of a social media and local media appeal, Bell was identified and subsequently arrested and charged.
DCI O’Loan said a dedicated police investigation team has worked “tirelessly” to ensure that those involved in the rioting are prosecuted.