The final day of the Ely riot sentencing hearing is taking place today, with the last 10 defendants learning their fate. The disorder in the Cardiff suburb erupted following the deaths of two teenage boys in an electric bike collision.
Background of the Riot
The deaths of Kyrees Sullivan, 16, and Harvey Evans, 15, on May 22, 2023, sparked hours of violence and vandalism. Around 150 people attended the riot, throwing missiles at police. The boys were killed while riding an electric bike through Ely and were pronounced dead at the scene. Shock and sadness turned to anger over police handling of the scene, fueled by rumors that police were responsible for their deaths.
Violence and Damage
Cars were rolled over and set alight, doors were thrown at officers, mattresses were burned, and petrol bombs were used, with one police officer engulfed in flames. Helicopters filmed the chaos. A total of 31 police officers and one civilian were injured during the hours of rioting.
Previous Sentencings
On Thursday, Jamie Jones was jailed for five years and two months, remaining emotionless as he was led to cells. An outburst followed the sentencing of Jamie Bateman, who received five years and nine months, with clapping and shouts of “Love you” from the gallery. Judge Lloyd-Clarke admonished the gallery, saying, “Do not shout across the courtroom… Leave the courtroom as quickly as you can.” Other defendants sentenced Thursday included Jayden Westcott, Jordan Webster, Lianna Tucker, Jumana Fouad, Zayne Farrugia, Jasmine Smith, Liam Williams, and James Chappell.
Emotional Scenes on Wednesday
On Wednesday, the first 10 defendants were sentenced, nine receiving custodial sentences, with abuse directed at Judge Lloyd-Clarke.
Defendants Sentenced Today
The final defendants to be sentenced on Friday include Malaki McQuade, Gemma Virgin, Callum O'Sullivan, Liam Black, Lee-Martin McQuade, Connor O'Sullivan, Kyle Telemaque, Matthew Evans, Ryan Knight, and Cameron Carter.
