Groundworker who threw at least 18 missiles during summer riot is jailed
A groundworker who threw at least 18 missiles at police during a city centre riot has been put behind bars.
Leyton Kennedy, who was wearing a balaclava, chanted, threw bricks or rocks then picked up metal poles to attack officers when trouble spread in Sunderland on August 2 2024.
Newcastle Crown Court heard the outbreak of violence mirrored similar scenes across the UK during that summer.
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Prosecutor Saba Shan said video recorded from several sources captured what happened in the city that day.
Miss Shan told the court: "He is seen to get very close to the police line, positioned outside the Holiday Inn Hotel.
"I have counted on the footage, he has thrown missiles at police lines at least 18 times."
Miss Shan said Kennedy picked up a metal pole to attack police then he and others picked up a larger pole to use as a "battering ram" against the officers.
Kennedy, 22, of Highcroft, Washington, who was upset throughout the hearing, admitted riot.
Mr Justice Tinkler sentenced him to two years and eight months behind bars.
Liam O'Brien, defending, said Kennedy, who has a learning disorder, ADHD and is still a young man, got "caught up" in the crowd and has since reflected on what he did and shown remorse.
Mr O'Brien said Kennedy is of positive character and references show he is a hard worker with a "caring, loving side".
The court heard Kennedy described his own behaviour as "foolish and stupid".
Miss Shan said during the widespread trouble that day police officers, dogs and horses were pelted with missiles as areas became unsafe for ordinary members of the public.
She added: "Officers were met with serious and sustained levels of violence.
Officers were attacked with missiles and verbally abused.
"Four officers required hospital treatment and some are not fit enough to return to frontline duties.
"Police vehicles were targeted and damaged. Several patrol cars needed repairs."
The court heard the city's police hub was set on fire, business premises were smashed and shops were looted.
Northumbria Police Chief Constable Vanessa Jardine said in an impact statement police vehicles as well as community buildings and businesses came under attack that day.
Ms Jardine said the violence was met with a £1.517m policing operation and the full psychological cost to officers involved is yet to be known.