Kill the Bill rioter jailed for 14 years - as protesters hold demonstration outside court

‘Ryan Roberts’ behaviour was appalling and it’s clear his actions escalated the level of violence directed at officers that night’
Jailed for 14 years: Ryan Robert was sentenced today for attempting to light two police vansJailed for 14 years: Ryan Robert was sentenced today for attempting to light two police vans
Jailed for 14 years: Ryan Robert was sentenced today for attempting to light two police vans

A man who tried to use ‘the uncontrollable weapon of fire’ against two police vans with officers inside during the Kill the Bill protest in March has been jailed for 14 years.

Ryan Roberts, of no fixed address, was caught on camera telling an officer driving one of the vans he was going to ‘go bang’ in Bristol on March 21.

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He was convicted of five offences – riot, attempted arson with intent to endanger life, attempted arson being reckless as to whether life is endangered and two counts of arson being reckless as to whether life is endangered.

And at Bristol Crown Court today (December 17), Judge James Patrick jailed Roberts for 14 years - while outside people protested against his conviction, and the policing bill which gives forces the power to shut down protests.

Judge Patrick said Roberts was “actively involved in attacking the police”, played a “leading role” in trying to smash into Bridewell Police Station and “used the uncontrollable weapon of fire”.

Twelve people have now been sentenced as part of the ongoing investigation into the riot on Sunday 21 March, being given a combined total of almost 50 years in prison to date.

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Roberts played a leading role in the disorder over several hours and the jury at his trial were shown a compilation of his offending lasting 34 minutes.

Jailed for 14 years: Ryan Robert was sentenced today for attempting to light two police vansJailed for 14 years: Ryan Robert was sentenced today for attempting to light two police vans
Jailed for 14 years: Ryan Robert was sentenced today for attempting to light two police vans

The compilation – made up of CCTV, mobile phone footage and officers body worn video – showed Roberts throwing missiles at police officers, kicking their shields and striking one with his hand before attacking the Bridewell.

He was filmed on multiple occasions attempting to start a fire under the wheel arch of a police van with an officer inside. At one point he is heard to threaten the officer, suggesting his van is going to explode.

He was also filmed repeatedly hitting an officer with a police baton before damaging three police vehicles, one of which he tries to roll over with others before starting a fire inside.

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News footage from the night was also included in the compilation. It showed Roberts holding a piece of burning cardboard under a police van as it reversed. Seven officers were inside the vehicle at the time.

Protesters stood outside the court with banners while Ryan Roberts was being sentencedProtesters stood outside the court with banners while Ryan Roberts was being sentenced
Protesters stood outside the court with banners while Ryan Roberts was being sentenced

Other video clips showing Roberts moving a bin alongside a police car before setting it alight and throwing items, including large metal fences, at police lines.

Detective Superintendent James Riccio, the senior investigating officer, said: “Ryan Roberts’ behaviour was appalling and it’s clear his actions escalated the level of violence directed at officers that night.

“Not only did he repeatedly target officers by hitting and kicking them and throwing large objects at them, but he attempted to set fire to vehicles with officers inside, leaving some to contemplate whether it was better to stay inside a burning van or risk getting out into a hostile crowd. This was a terrible decision for them to make.

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“These are officers who come to work every day to serve and protect the public. Their victim impact statements are powerful and show the physical and psychological impact the terrible events of that night have had on them.”

He added: “The investigation into the riot continues unabated and I know the team are committed to identifying all those involved and examining every piece of evidence, to ensure justice is served.”

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