Rioter Who Torchsed Police Van Lands Five Years Behind Bars
A 31-year-old man from South Gloucestershire has been jailed for five years after setting fire to a police vehicle during the Bristol city centre riot. Matthew O’Neill, of Patchway, admitted riot and arson charges just before his trial was due to begin.
Shocking Footage Captures Violent Rampage
Video evidence from the chaotic night of 21 March 2021 showed O’Neill lighting a police van ablaze. He fanned the flames with a police shield and then smashed the van’s front window with a chair. He also attacked officers using a shield and baton, and caused damage to Bridewell Police Station’s frontage.
Judge Slams ‘Hijacking’ of Peaceful Protest
“Officers were struck, spat on, kicked and punched, and dragged into the crowd,” said Judge Patrick. “Your behaviour was criminal and far exceeded anything that can be described as a lawful protest.”
“This incident caused serious distress, damage, and a hefty cost to the public.”
Police Call for Justice After Rampage
Det Supt James Riccio said the violence and use of fire was “wanton” and that the “compelling visual evidence” left O’Neill no choice but to plead guilty. O’Neill is the seventeenth person jailed so far over the Bristol riot incidents, with total prison time exceeding 65 years.
“This is a clear message: violence and destruction will not be tolerated,” Riccio added.
Another Riot Suspect Admits Affray
In a separate case, 26-year-old Fleur Moody from Montpelier, Bristol admitted affray charges at Bristol Crown Court. She remains on unconditional bail ahead of her sentencing hearing on 5 September.
The total number of people held accountable for offences outside Bridewell Police Station now stands at 21.
