20-year-old man jailed for role in Ballymena summer riots

Summarised from 3 outlets · Updated 5 Nov, 20:10 · Archive

A 20-year-old man has been sentenced to 60 months for his role in disorder that broke out in Ballymena, Co Antrim in June 2025.

Calum Bell, aged 20, was sentenced to 60 months at Antrim Crown Court on Thursday for his role in disorder that broke out in Ballymena, Co Antrim on 9 June 2025. He was convicted of riot, intentionally encouraging or assisting riot, and burglary with intent to cause unlawful damage. Half his sentence will be spent in custody and half on licence.

According to PSNI Detective Chief Inspector Michael O'Loan, large-scale disorder broke out on the streets of Ballymena involving a large crowd of rioters, with further violence then following across other areas in Northern Ireland. Damage was caused to roads, homes, cars and local business premises. Officers came under attack and many were left injured after petrol bombs, heavy masonry and fireworks were thrown at them.

On the day of the disorder, Bell was seen building a barricade using green safety barriers on Clonavon Road before leading a group to properties on the Clonavon and Waveney Road. He pointed at a property and threw masonry at the house with others in the group. Bell was also seen breaking up masonry into smaller pieces, and the door of a property was forced open. He went inside for a period of time before running down Waveney Road. Police identified him after releasing his image as part of a social media and local media appeal.

How it is being reported

• Antrim Crown Court jails 20-year-old man over Ballymena riotingAntrim Crown Court has jailed a 20-year-old man for rioting and other offences in Ballymena last summer.News Letter · 5 Nov, 21:17
• Man (20) handed jail term after Ballymena race riotsBelfast Telegraph · 5 Nov, 19:27
• Pictured: 20-year-old man jailed over summer riots in BallymenaHe was convicted of riot, intentionally encouraging or assisting riot, and burglary with intent to cause unlawful damage.Belfast Live · 5 Nov, 19:15

In this story: Calum Bell · Ballymena · Co Antrim · Northern Ireland · PSNI · Antrim Crown Court

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