The yobs and vandals who brought shame on the North East
Courts in the North East continue to hand down sentences to those found guilty of participating in last summer's violent unrest that stunned local communities. The events exposed shocking scenes of disorder across several towns.
Background of the unrest
In the summer of 2024, violent outbreaks took place in Sunderland, Middlesbrough, Hartlepool, and Darlington. The disturbances erupted after the Southport attack, where three young girls tragically lost their lives.
According to the National Police Chiefs' Council (NPCC), more than 1,000 people were arrested across the UK in connection with the riots.
Recent court outcomes
Dane Peace, 30, took part in looting at a NatWest bank and a vape shop during the Sunderland riots. He was sentenced in October to two years and four months in prison.
Shay Henson, 19, of Padgate Road, Sunderland, admitted to charges of riot and burglary. He was caught on video wearing a balaclava, throwing objects at police, and stealing from a vape shop. Last month, he was sentenced to 32 months in a young offenders institution.
Regional impact
The violence of 2024 remains a dark mark on the North East, with communities still processing the shock and courts continuing to deliver justice to those involved.
Author’s summary: Sentencing continues for participants of the 2024 North East riots, with recent convictions shedding light on the lingering impact of the violent unrest that shook the region.