Ten more defendants are set to be sentenced today for their roles in the Ely riots, as the eighth day of the sentencing hearing begins at Cardiff Crown Court. The defendants include Jamie Jones, Jayden Westcott, Jumana Fouad, Jordan Webster, Lianna Tucker, Zayne Farrugia, Jasmine Smith, Jamie Bateman, Liam Williams, and James Chappell.
Background of the Riots
The disorder in the Cardiff suburb erupted following the deaths of Kyrees Sullivan, 16, and Harvey Evans, 15, who were killed in an e-bike collision on Snowden Road on May 22, 2023. Large crowds from the close-knit community gathered, leading to hours of rioting that injured 31 police officers and one civilian.
Previous Sentencing
On Wednesday, emotional scenes unfolded in court as the first 10 defendants were sentenced, nine of whom received custodial sentences. Ashdon O'Dare was sentenced to six years and six months for his instrumental role in the violence. The judge described him as the first to become aggressive and confrontational. Family members in the public gallery shouted abuse and made obscene gestures during the proceedings.
Today's Proceedings
Judge Tracey Lloyd-Clarke entered the courtroom and warned the public gallery to remain silent. She outlined the actions of Jamie Jones, who arrived late at the scene with Jordan Bratcher. Jones collected stones from a garden and threw them at police, then threw a food waste bin that narrowly missed an officer before leaving the scene.
The public gallery is packed with family members and friends as the hearing continues. Barristers and press are also present in courtroom eight.
