Six found guilty in the dramatic Ely riots! Two years ago, Cardiff witnessed chaos on its streets following the tragic deaths of two teenagers, Kyrees Sullivan and Harvey Evans, who were fatally injured in a crash while on an electric bike. The unrest grabbed headlines and shook the local community to its core.
Lee Robinson, Luke Williams, Jaydan Baston, Jordan Bratcher, Zayne Farrugia, and Connor O’Sullivan stood trial at Newport Crown Court, all initially denying their involvement. But the evidence said otherwise, and the jury found them guilty of rioting.
The prosecution painted a vivid picture of the chaos on that fateful day. With tensions high, the community gathered at the collision site on Snowden Road. Police officers faced danger at every turn, with bottles and bricks being hurled at them. In the ensuing mayhem, cars were set ablaze, fireworks launched, and even a petrol bomb was tossed, engulfing an officer in flames. The sky lit up for all the wrong reasons that day.
Not everyone supported the violence; some community members showed kindness amidst the turmoil, feeling confused and frightened by the unfolding events. Imagine the fear of hiding in your own home as chaos reigns outside, with rioters damaging property and launching attacks on the police.
While six were found guilty, McKenzie Danks was acquitted, with the evidence not meeting the bar for conviction. This harrowing chapter in Cardiff’s history now sees some closure as justice takes its course.
The events of that day serve as a stark reminder of the potential for violence in the face of emotion-driven outrage and the repercussions individuals face when caught in such turbulent acts. Stay safe, everyone.