07/07/2026
Ballymena Riot: Teen Handed 40-Month Sentence At Antrim Crown Court
Michael Elliot, 19, from the Ballymena area, has been sentenced to 40 months for common law riot over large-scale disorder in the town in June 2025, with 20 months in custody and a further 20 months on licence.
Antrim Crown Court passed sentence on Monday 6 July in relation to the disturbance in Ballymena last summer.
Elliot received a 40-month term after being convicted of common law riot, comprising 20 months to be served in prison and 20 months on licence.
He was arrested after being identified as taking part in serious disorder in Ballymena on Tuesday 10 June 2025.
Detective Inspector Gallagher 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.
"We would also repeat 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."
Non-emergency reports can be made online at reporting.psni.police.uk/appeals. Information can also be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org.
Antrim Crown Court passed sentence on Monday 6 July in relation to the disturbance in Ballymena last summer.
Elliot received a 40-month term after being convicted of common law riot, comprising 20 months to be served in prison and 20 months on licence.
He was arrested after being identified as taking part in serious disorder in Ballymena on Tuesday 10 June 2025.
Detective Inspector Gallagher 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.
"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.
"We would also repeat 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."
Non-emergency reports can be made online at reporting.psni.police.uk/appeals. Information can also be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via www.crimestoppers-uk.org.
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A mainly cloudy day with patchy rain spreading across the southeast, best chance of brighter conditions around the Antrim coast. Chance of a heavier shower later in the west. Light winds. Maximum temperature 18 °C.Tonight:Some heavier showers developing during the evening, especially in the south, becoming drier towards dawn with some clear spells later, light winds. Minimum temperature 11 °C.