Ballymena riot participant jailed for 32 months as police warn more convictions will follow

Jailed: Twenty-nine-year-old Matthew Henry from Ballymena

A man involved in serious disorder in Ballymena during the violent unrest of June last year has been sentenced to 32 months in prison, as police warned that further prosecutions connected to the disturbances are still to come.

Twenty-nine-year-old Matthew Henry was sentenced at Antrim Crown Court on Thursday following his conviction for common law riot arising from disorder in Ballymena on Tuesday, June 10, 2025.

Henry, who is from the Ballymena area, received a 32-month sentence, half of which will be served in custody.

He will spend 16 months in prison, followed by a further 16 months on licence in the community.

Sentence linked to major Ballymena disorder

Police said Henry was identified as having taken part in serious public disorder which unfolded in the town during what officers previously described as some of the worst scenes of violence witnessed locally in recent years.

The unrest resulted in significant damage across parts of Ballymena, affecting roads, homes, vehicles and business premises.

During the disturbances, police officers came under sustained attack, with petrol bombs, fireworks and heavy masonry thrown at officers attempting to restore order.

A number of officers were injured during the violence.

Police say investigation continues

Speaking after Thursday’s sentencing, Detective Inspector Gallagher said the scenes witnessed during the disorder had left a lasting impact on the local community.

“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,” he said.

“Our officers came under attack and many left injured after petrol bombs, heavy masonry and fireworks were thrown at them.”

The detective inspector said police had made a commitment at the time of the unrest to identify and prosecute those responsible.

“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 active

Police have reiterated their appeal for anyone with information about criminal activity connected to the disorder, or any other crime, to come forward.

Members of the public can contact police by calling 101, or 999 in an emergency.

Reports can also be made online through the PSNI non-emergency reporting service or anonymously through Crimestoppers.

PSNI non-emergency reporting form⁠

Crimestoppers UK⁠

The sentencing marks another stage in the ongoing legal aftermath of the Ballymena disorder, with police making clear that further cases remain before the courts as investigations continue.