First jail sentences given to men involved in Hartlepool disorder
The first prison sentences have been handed down for those involved in one of the recent incidents of disorder in the North East.
Last updated 8th Aug 2024
The first prison sentences have been handed down for those involved in one of the recent incidents of disorder in the North East.
Ryan Sheers, 28, of Powlett Road, Hartlepool, pleaded guilty to a charge of violent disorder. He was today sentenced to two years and two months' imprisonment at Teesside Crown Court.
Steven Mailen, 54, of Arch Court, Hartlepool, also pleaded guilty to a charge of violent disorder and was sentenced to two years and two months' imprisonment at the same court.
Both men were involved in the widely-condemned disorder in Hartlepool on 31 July, which appears to have been fuelled by deliberate online misinformation.
Hundreds of prosecutors have been working around the clock across the Crown Prosecution Service, making rapid charging decisions so that suspects can be brought before the courts without delay.
Christopher Atkinson, Senior District Crown Prosecutor at CPS North East, said: “The tough sentences handed out today should serve as a lesson for anyone considering taking part in this type of disorder across the North East.
“This show of violence on the streets of Hartlepool has done nothing but instil fear in local residents and cause damage to local businesses.
“I would like to praise the excellent work of Cleveland Police in dealing with this disorder. In addition to their brave response to a particularly difficult situation, they have also secured key evidence against multiple offenders which has assisted us greatly in building such robust cases against those involved.
“We will continue to work closely with our police partners, responding swiftly and robustly to any activity which threatens the safety of the communities we serve.
“Our message is clear: we stand ready to secure convictions and push for the strongest possible sentences against anyone involved in violent unrest.
“The appalling scenes of violence like those seen in Hartlepool last week will not be tolerated. The CPS will continue to work swiftly alongside partners in the criminal justice system to haul anyone involved before the court to face the full consequences of their actions.”
Kieron Gatenby, of Yeovil Walk in Hartlepool, participated in the disorder for around 30 and 60 minutes.
The 19-year-old was seen on CCTV footage throwing a missile towards police officers.
Bobby Shirbon, Cornwall Street in Hartlepool, was captured hurling missiles such as wood and bottles at officers.
The 18-year-old was also seen smashing windows and causing damage. On arrest he told officers "It's ok everyone else is doing it."
The final man is Carl Holliday, of Tankerville Street in Hartlepool.
He hurled large pieces of metal shelving at police officers holding shields to provide a protective cordon on Murray Street.
The 30-year-old was captured on a seven-minute video throwing the item four times.
On one occasion the footage showed him carrying the large item which he then threw directly towards the police line. He then threw another extremely large piece of metal shelving in the direction of officers.
The details of those sentenced on Thursday 8 August at Teesside Crown Court are:
• Steven Mailen jailed for 26 months
• Ryan Sheers jailed for 26 months
• Kieron Gatenby jailed for 16 months
• Bobby Shirbon jailed for 20 months
• Carl Holliday jailed for two years and eight months
Assistant Chief Constable David Felton, of Cleveland Police, said: “Over the last week officers have been faced with extremely challenging situations involving individuals who had nothing else in mind but the intent to cause violence.
“Within seven days of the Hartlepool disorder those set on committing serious violence have been arrested, charged and now sentenced by the court. This sends a very firm message to anyone continuing to think of committing sheer violence.
“Our investigation remains on going and I want to encourage members of the public to keep reporting information – no matter how small you think it might be.”