Prison sentence for man involved in summer street disorder in Ballymena

A Ballymena man has been handed a prison sentence for his role in the large-scale, race-motivated disorder that brought significant disruption and fear to the town in June this year.

At Antrim Crown Court today, Tuesday 9 December, Jordan Benjamin McAuley was sentenced to two years and eight months’ imprisonment after being convicted of riot.

Half of the term will be served in custody, with the remainder on licence.

McAuley, from Ballymena, also received a three-month custodial sentence for breaching a suspended sentence. This will run concurrently with the main sentence.

The conviction relates to sustained disorder in Ballymena on 11 June 2025, during which police, properties and members of the public were targeted amid what officers described as severe race-motivated unrest.

‘Shameful scenes’ during night of disorder

Chief Inspector Michael O’Loan condemned the violence and reiterated the commitment of police to bring offenders before the courts.

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.”

Police officers responding to the disorder faced significant danger.

“Our officers came under attack and many left injured after petrol bombs, heavy masonry and fireworks were thrown at them,” Chief Inspector O’Loan said.

He added that the Police Service of Northern Ireland had pledged at the time to restore order and hold perpetrators accountable.

“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.”

Police renew appeals for information

Officers are continuing to investigate offences connected to the June unrest and have urged anyone with information to come forward.

Chief Inspector O’Loan said:

“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 submitted via the PSNI’s online reporting form or through Crimestoppers anonymously.