Ballymena man jailed for role as ‘main instigator’ in June disorder
Jailed: Ballymena man Bradley Douglas
A Ballymena man identified by police as one of the “main instigators” of rioting in the town last summer has been sentenced to five years, with half of the term to be spent in custody.
Bradley Douglas, 28, was sentenced at Antrim Crown Court today, Wednesday 9 September, after being convicted of riot and burglary with intent to cause unlawful damage.
He was given a five-year sentence, comprising 30 months in custody and 30 months on licence, in connection with the serious disorder which erupted in Ballymena in June 2025.
Police said Douglas was captured on police systems throwing rocks and metal poles at officers in the Clonavon Terrace area and described him as the first person in that particular riot to attack police with masonry, poles and bottles.
Violence followed days of disorder
Large-scale disorder initially broke out in Ballymena on Monday 9 June 2025, with further violence subsequently occurring in other parts of Northern Ireland.
Detective Chief Inspector Michael O’Loan said the disorder caused extensive damage and left residents frightened for their safety.
He 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 left injured after petrol bombs, heavy masonry and fireworks were thrown at them.”
Police footage identified Douglas
According to police, Douglas was identified through footage captured the following evening.
DCI O’Loan said:
“On 10th June 2025 at approximately 8.20pm police systems 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.”
Douglas was located by police on 22 June 2025 and arrested on suspicion of riot and burglary before subsequently being charged.
‘One of many’ sentences over Ballymena disorder
Police said the case forms part of the continuing effort to prosecute those responsible for the violence.
DCI O’Loan added:
“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.
“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.”
Information can also be submitted to police using the PSNI’s online non-emergency reporting form.
Anyone wishing to provide information anonymously can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or online.
Today’s sentencing represents another court outcome from the investigation into the June 2025 disorder, with police continuing to pursue those identified as having taken part in the violence.
