44-year-old sentenced over Ballymena disorder after supplying bottles to rioters and attacking officers
Jailed: 44-year-old Gary McCrystal
Friday 23 October 2026
A 44-year-old man has been sentenced to three years in prison, with 12 months to be served in custody, for his involvement in the violent disorder that erupted in Ballymena in June 2025.
Gary McCrystal was sentenced at Belfast Magistrates’ Court today, Friday 23 October, after being charged with riot following the disturbances that saw police officers attacked and widespread damage caused across the town.
The sentence comprises 12 months in custody followed by 24 months on licence.
Bottles supplied to rioters attacking police
Police said McCrystal was involved in serious public disorder in the Clonavon Road area of Ballymena on Tuesday 10 June 2025, during the second night of rioting.
He was observed distributing bottles from a bag to rioters, who subsequently threw them at police officers. McCrystal was also seen throwing bottles at officers himself.
He was arrested on 4 July 2025 as part of the police investigation into the violence.
Three nights of violence across Ballymena
The disorder began on Monday 9 June 2025 and continued for three consecutive nights, with large crowds involved in rioting on the streets of Ballymena.
Homes, vehicles, roads and business premises were damaged, while police officers faced sustained attacks involving petrol bombs, heavy masonry and fireworks.
Violence also occurred elsewhere in Northern Ireland, including Larne, Newtownabbey, Portadown and Derry/Londonderry.
Police highlight impact on residents and officers
Speaking following the sentencing, Detective Chief Inspector O’Loan described the scale of the violence and the fear experienced by local residents.
“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.”
The senior detective said police had committed to identifying and prosecuting those responsible for the disturbances.
“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.”
Investigation into disorder continues
McCrystal's sentencing is the latest court outcome arising from the June 2025 disturbances, with police continuing to encourage anyone affected by criminal activity to come forward.
Detective Chief Inspector O’Loan added:
“We would also repeat 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 provided through the following channels:
• Police non-emergency number: 101
• Emergency assistance: 999
• PSNI online reporting: www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/
• Crimestoppers anonymous reporting: 0800 555 111
• Crimestoppers online: www.crimestoppers-uk.org
The latest sentence adds to the legal consequences of the three nights of violence that left Ballymena residents fearing for their safety, with police continuing their efforts to hold those involved accountable.
