Ballymena riot offenders jailed as police vow ‘many more’ prosecutions to come

(L-R) Logan Carley and Jack Redmond

Two men have been jailed for their roles in the large-scale disorder that erupted in Ballymena in June last year, with police warning that further prosecutions will follow as investigations continue into the violence that left officers injured and caused widespread damage across the town.

Jack Redmond, 22, from Ballymena, and Logan Carley, 24, from the Ballymena area, were sentenced at Antrim Crown Court on Wednesday, 8 July, after being convicted of offences linked to the serious public disorder that unfolded over several nights in June 2025.

The sentences mark another significant development in the PSNI’s ongoing investigation into the unrest, which saw roads, homes, businesses and vehicles targeted while police officers came under sustained attack.

Custodial sentences handed down

Redmond was sentenced to 27 months’ imprisonment after being convicted of two counts of common law riot. He will serve 13-and-a-half months in custody, with the remaining 13-and-a-half months to be spent on licence.

Carley received a 30-month sentence after being convicted of common law riot. He will spend 15 months in custody followed by 15 months on licence.

The court heard that Redmond was identified as having participated in serious disorder in Ballymena on 9 and 10 June 2025, while Carley was identified as taking part in the disorder on 11 June 2025.

Police: More offenders will face justice

Detective Inspector Gallagher described the violence as “shameful” and reiterated that the investigation remains active.

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.”

The detective inspector also renewed an appeal for members of the public to continue coming forward with information as enquiries continue.

Anyone who has been the victim of a crime, or who has information that could assist police, is asked to contact the PSNI on 101, or 999 in an emergency.

Reports can also be submitted online through the PSNI’s non-emergency reporting form at https://reporting.psni.police.uk/appeals.

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

Investigation remains ongoing

The latest custodial sentences form part of the PSNI’s continuing effort to identify and prosecute those responsible for the serious disorder that affected Ballymena over several days in June 2025.

Police have made clear that further cases are expected to come before the courts as investigations continue, with detectives maintaining that everyone involved in the violence will be pursued through the criminal justice system wherever evidence exists.