Ballymena man jailed for five years over June 2025 riots as court hears details of attacks on homes
20-year-old Ballymena man Calum Bell
Thursday 5 November 2026
A 20-year-old Ballymena man has been sentenced to five years in prison for his involvement in the June 2025 riots, including attacks on residential properties during the serious disorder that gripped the town.
Calum Bell was sentenced at Antrim Crown Court on Thursday (5 November) after being convicted of riot, intentionally encouraging or assisting riot, and burglary with intent to cause unlawful damage.
He received a 60-month sentence, with half to be served in custody and the remaining 30 months on licence.
Barricades and attacks on homes
The court outcome follows a police investigation into the violence that erupted in Ballymena on Monday 9 June 2025, when large crowds gathered and disorder spread through residential streets.
Detective Chief Inspector Michael O’Loan outlined Bell’s involvement, describing how he was seen constructing a barricade using green safety barriers on Clonavon Road.
Bell then led a group towards the rear of properties on Clonavon and Waveney Road, where he pointed towards a house before joining others in throwing masonry at the building.
DCI O’Loan said:
“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.”
Property entered during disorder
Police also described how Bell broke a piece of masonry into smaller pieces before becoming involved in a further incident at a residential property.
DCI O’Loan said:
“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.”
Bell was subsequently identified after police released his image through social media and local media appeals. He was arrested and charged following that identification.
Violence left residents fearing for their lives
The June 2025 disorder caused widespread damage in Ballymena, with homes, vehicles, roads and business premises targeted. Violence subsequently spread to other parts of Northern Ireland.
Police officers also came under sustained attack, with a number injured as petrol bombs, heavy masonry and fireworks were thrown during the disturbances.
Recalling the impact, DCI O’Loan said:
“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.”
Police investigation continues to deliver convictions
Police said Bell’s sentencing was one of a number of court outcomes arising from the disorder, with a dedicated investigation team working to bring those responsible before the courts.
DCI O’Loan said:
“Our dedicated investigation team has worked tirelessly to ensure that those involved are prosecuted and today’s sentencing is one of many in relation to this disorder.”
He also renewed an appeal for victims and witnesses to come forward with information about offences committed during the violence.
“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.”
How to provide information to police
Anyone with information about criminal activity can contact police using the following options:
• Police non-emergency number: 101
• Emergency assistance: 999
• Online police reporting: https://reporting.psni.police.uk/appeals
• Crimestoppers anonymous reporting: 0800 555 111
• Crimestoppers online: www.crimestoppers-uk.org
Bell’s sentencing marks another court outcome following the violence that shook Ballymena in June 2025, as police continue to pursue accountability for offences committed during the disorder.
