Six Sentenced in Ely Riots Hearing
Six individuals faced justice at Cardiff Crown Court on Friday, June 12, 2026, as part of the ongoing sentencing for the Ely riots. Over two weeks, 30 people are being sentenced for their involvement in the disorder. Here are the key moments from day five of the hearing.
Connor O'Sullivan
Connor O'Sullivan wore a face covering while throwing plasterboard and bricks at police. He helped others attempt to throw a door at the police cordon and was heard shouting, 'Come on, come on boys, any more?' and 'Ely gang'.
Malaki McQuade
Malaki McQuade tipped a car on its side during the riots. He also faces sentencing for stabbing his ex-girlfriend in the leg three times and for drug offences after being found with over £1,000 worth of heroin and cocaine.
Gemma Virgin
Grandmother Gemma Virgin threw missiles at police and taunted officers while brandishing a plank of wood. She later claimed she was intoxicated and expressed shame and remorse, stating she was a grandmother who regretted her actions.
Lee-Martin McQuade
Lee-Martin McQuade shouted aggressively at police, threw missiles, burned an area near a lit mattress, and helped prepare a petrol bomb. He encouraged others to target Ely police station and shouted, 'Don’t kill people’s kids, we don’t want to do this but we have to, you’re horrible c****. We’re normal people living a normal life, well you c**** hurt kids, you caused this killing people’s kids.'
Liam Black
Liam Black was a prolific stone- and missile-thrower, among the first to throw lit fireworks at police. He was described as being at the 'forefront of the crowd'.
Luke Williams
Luke Williams livestreamed the riot on his phone, encouraging his thousands of viewers to join and celebrating acts of violence against police. In his own footage, he said, 'This is in Ely, Stanway Road, for anyone watching who wants to come and join in. I’m not advising you to, I’m advising you to stay away.'
Full details of the sentencing hearing can be accessed by subscribers.
