A total of 31 individuals have been named and charged with offences related to the riots in Ely, Cardiff by the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS). The riots occurred on May 22, 2023, following the tragic deaths of two teenagers in the area, Kyrees Sullivan, 16, and Harvey Evans, 15. The incident led to violent clashes between crowds and the police, with widespread disruption in the neighbourhood. Footage emerged of a police van following the two teenagers just before the fatal crash, sparking outrage and violence.
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is concluding its investigations into the interaction between South Wales Police and the teenagers before their deaths, along with complaints raised by the families of Kyrees and Harvey regarding the police response and communication. The CPS has now confirmed charges against the 31 individuals linked to the riots, with 27 defendants facing charges of riot and four facing charges of causing or threatening to cause criminal damage.
These defendants will have their first hearing at Cardiff Magistrates’ Court on September 19 and 20, 2024. The Chief Crown Prosecutor for Wales, Jenny Hopkins, emphasised the importance of fair trial processes and cautioned against prejudicing the proceedings through reporting or commentary. The charged individuals include a range of ages from different Cardiff neighbourhoods, such as Splott, Ely, Caerau, and Llanrumney.
Chief Superintendent Danny Richards from South Wales Police expressed gratitude for the community’s support during the investigation and highlighted the severe impact of the disorder, including burned vehicles, property damage, injuries to police officers, and fear among residents. Earlier this year, over 20 people faced court over driving offences related to a memorial ride-out from Ely to Barry honouring the deceased teenagers. The CPS’s authorisation of charges signals a significant step towards justice for the events that unfolded in Ely on that fateful day.