Cardiff council has sent letters to 17 council tenants warning they could face eviction if a household member is convicted for offences related to the 2023 Ely riots. The notices, issued on 9 July, state that south Wales police informed the council of charges against at least one resident per household for involvement in the disorder, described as a 'serious incident which caused severe alarm and distress throughout the community'.
The riots, which took place on 22-23 May 2023, were triggered by the deaths of friends Harvey Evans, 15, and Kyrees Sullivan, 16, in an e-bike crash. Rumours of a police chase spread online, leading to 150 people gathering at the scene. Over 30 police officers were injured, property was damaged, and cars were set alight. A total of 42 people were charged; 11 have been sentenced, including eight minors.
The letters assert that the alleged offences constitute a breach of the occupation contract, as tenants are responsible for the behaviour of household members 'within the vicinity of your property'. If convicted, the council may seek repossession of the home. Trials are expected to continue until February 2026.
Recipients have expressed shock and concern. One mother, whose son faces court later this year, called the move 'disgusting' and 'designed to punish the whole community'. A housing law expert described the notices as 'abnormal and egregious practice', noting that eviction for crimes outside the property is unusual and may face judicial hurdles. Shelter Cymru chief executive Ruth Power said the charity has been contacted by worried tenants 'living in fear of homelessness'.
Cardiff council defended the action, stating the offences occurred in the 'locality of their home' and that serving notice is 'normal process' for serious charges with distant court dates. A spokesperson emphasised it is 'not about rushing to eviction' but a 'clear warning', with each case assessed individually. Housing policy is devolved in Wales, and no similar action by other Welsh councils has been identified.
