One of main instigators of Ballymena riots is jailed after attacks on PSNI with masonry, metal poles and bottles
One of the main instigators of last year's riot in Ballymena that helped sparked violence across Northern Ireland has been jailed after being found guilty of leading attacks on police with masonry metal poles and bottles.
The Ballymena riots in June 2025 were sparked by an alleged sexual assault of a teenage girl, but the subsequent violence quickly became racially motivated anti-immigrant disorder, according to the PSNI.
In Antrim Crown Court today Bradley Douglas (28) from Ballymena, 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.
PSNI 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," he said.
“Our officers also came under attack and many left injured after petrol bombs, heavy masonry and fireworks were thrown at them."
On 10 June 2025 at around 8.20pm police 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."
Police found Douglas on 22 June and arrested him.
“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," Mr O'Loan said.
“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