Ballymena man jailed for role in June riot as police warn more sentences are to come

Sentenced: Kyle Anderson, 33, for involvement in Ballymens riots

A Ballymena man has been jailed for his part in the serious disorder which erupted in the town in June last year, as police warned that further prosecutions and sentences will follow.

Kyle Anderson, 33, was sentenced at Antrim Crown Court on Wednesday, 1 July, after being convicted of riot offences connected to the violence in Ballymena on Tuesday, 10 June 2025.

The court heard that Anderson, from Ballymena, was handed a total sentence of 42 months imprisonment, made up of 21 months in custody followed by 21 months on licence.

Sentence linked to major disorder in Ballymena

Anderson was arrested after investigators identified him as having taken part in the large-scale disorder that unfolded in the town during the evening of 10 June 2025.

The disturbances saw widespread damage caused across Ballymena, with roads, homes, vehicles and business premises affected during scenes described by police as some of the most serious public disorder experienced in the area in recent years.

Police officers responding to the unrest also came under sustained attack, with petrol bombs, heavy masonry and fireworks thrown at officers deployed to restore order.

A number of officers were injured during the violence.

Police say further prosecutions will follow

Detective Inspector Gallagher described the events as “shameful scenes” carried out by individuals intent on causing harm.

He 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.”

Appeal for information remains open

Police have reiterated their appeal for anyone who has been the victim of crime connected to the disorder, or who holds information which could assist ongoing investigations, to come forward.

Anyone with information can contact police by calling 101, or 999 in an emergency.

Reports can also be submitted online through the PSNI’s non-emergency reporting service at www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/.

Information can also be provided anonymously through Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.

The sentencing represents the latest court outcome arising from the Ballymena disorder, with police making clear that investigations remain ongoing and that further individuals involved in the violence can expect to face prosecution.