Two Men Sentenced for Roles in Middlesbrough Riot

Two individuals have been handed prison sentences for their involvement in the civil unrest that took place this summer. Disturbances commenced during a protest held in Middlesbrough on 4 August, with the ensuing violence described by police as “staggering.” Paul Smith was observed pushing a refuse bin towards a police cordon on Ayresome Street in the town, while Rosh Mahmood was seen holding a wooden plank. Mr. Smith, 24, of St Catherine’s Court, Middlesbrough, received a 22-month prison term at Teesside Crown Court on Monday, following his conviction on one charge of violent disorder. Mr. Mahmood, 21, of Victoria Road, Middlesbrough, was sentenced to six months in prison at the same court for the offense of possession of a weapon in a public place. Cleveland Police reported that officers witnessed him pick up the plank and proceed towards other rioters before they apprehended him.