The first day of the sentencing hearing for 30 individuals involved in the Ely riots has concluded. The violence erupted in Ely, Cardiff, three years ago after the deaths of two teenage boys in an electric bike collision. The hearing on Monday heard harrowing statements from police officers about the traumatic events of May 22, 2023.
Background of the Riots
Kyrees Sullivan, 16, and Harvey Evans, 15, died while riding an electric bike through the streets of Ely. Their deaths sparked hours of violence and vandalism, with around 150 people taking part. The mothers of the boys attempted to reach their children but were blocked by police.
Shock and sadness among the close-knit community quickly turned to anger as rumours circulated that police were responsible for the crash. The riot saw vehicles set alight, missiles thrown, and police officers injured.
Police Officer Testimonies
Matthew Cobbe, prosecuting, read out statements detailing injuries suffered by officers. One officer, PC Laura Spence, said in her statement: "It was the first time in my career that I thought I would not be going home due to the violence and hostility and a strong chance of me getting seriously hurt. Whilst I did not sustain any physical injury, the mental trauma still remains."
Another officer, PC Zoe Lea, described the moment she was set alight by a petrol bomb. She said: "During the incident I was set alight. I was still under attack at this time and unable to deal with the fact my clothes were on fire." She called the experience "petrifying" and noted that someone extinguished the flames before serious injury occurred.
The court also heard that one officer reported suicidal ideations and did not attend work for over a year. Another officer suffered hearing loss and head trauma.
Defendant's Outburst
During the reading of statements, defendant Ryan Knight shouted from the dock: "What about Harvey and Kyrees? I haven't heard their names once." Judge Tracey Lloyd-Clarke ordered him to be taken to a cell.
Michaela Gonzales Case
The court also heard about Michaela Gonzales, 37, who threw a bottle at police before hiding behind a car. Her defence barrister said she was involved in looking after the families of the deceased boys, which affected her state of mind. Gonzales suffers from schizophrenia and has a history of domestic violence. She was granted bail and is due for sentencing on June 17.
The hearing continues on Tuesday at 10am.
