A 32-year-old who encouraged “mob violence” and was the first defendant in the UK to admit a charge of riot following nationwide disorder last month has been jailed for four years and four months.
Kieran Usher, from Bramwell Road, Hendon, Sunderland, was in a group of around 20 yobs who hurled missiles at police during a night of trouble in the city on August 2, which left bystanders terrified.
He was sentenced at Newcastle Crown Court after admitting a charge of riot at a previous hearing – becoming the first defendant in the country to do so.
CCTV evidence showed Usher donning a mask and wearing a Union flag, encouraging others to participate in violence and throwing missiles at police from close range.
Judge Tim Gittins took into account that Usher, who has learning difficulties, made full admissions to police and pleaded guilty at the first opportunity.
After he pleaded guilty earlier this month, Christopher Atkinson, Head of the Complex Casework Unit for CPS North East, said: “It is clear from the evidence in this case that Usher played an active role in the mob violence that unfolded on the streets of Sunderland.”