Merseyside Police Crack Down on Rioters: Seven Arrested, Two Jailed for Violent Disorder
In the ongoing investigation into last summer’s violent disorder across Merseyside, authorities have jailed two men, charged two more, and made three additional arrests this past week.
Matthew Carrigan, 33, of Tarvin Road in Chester, was sentenced to three years in prison on April 9 for his leading role in a riot that took place in Liverpool city centre on August 3, 2024. Carrigan was caught on CCTV urging others to join the violence, including an attempt to set fire to a police vehicle. Footage on his phone also revealed him shouting racist abuse and documenting the chaos.
Bradley Jones, 33, originally from Wigan, was also sentenced to three years in jail on April 11 for his involvement in the Southport unrest. CCTV showed Jones hurling objects at officers and a police carrier, even retrieving missiles from a wheelie bin to continue his attack.
New Charges Filed
Gareth Bond, 45, of Southport, was charged with violent disorder on April 4 and will appear in court on April 23.
Michael Hughes, 40, of Anfield Road, faces charges for violent disorder and possession of cannabis. He’s due in court on April 22.
Additional Arrests
A 44-year-old Prescot man was arrested on April 5 at Manchester Airport after returning from holiday. He is accused of attempting to assault officers during the Southport violence.
A 32-year-old woman from Bootle was arrested on April 10 for throwing missiles and burglarizing a local shop during the riots.
A 16-year-old boy from Runcorn was arrested for launching multiple projectiles at police during the Liverpool County Road incident.
All three have been bailed pending further investigation.
Ongoing Investigation
Merseyside Police have now made 194 arrests, with 151 people charged and 134 sentenced, totaling 247 years and six months behind bars.
Detective Inspector Paula Jones emphasized the police’s continued commitment:
“We make no apologies for our relentless pursuit of those involved. Even if you live outside Merseyside, we will find you.”
The investigation remains active, with officers reviewing footage from areas including Blackburn, Bradford, Chester, Manchester, Ormskirk, Preston, Runcorn, Telford, and Wigan.
Anyone with information or involved is urged to come forward.
