By Farai Cheuka Zimba Wave Media
Sheffield Crown Court
Thomas Birley, 27 of Swinton, has been jailed for nine years for taking part in a riot in Rotherham-the longest prison sentence handed out by judges following widespread violence last month.
Judge Jeremy Richardson KC told Sheffield Crown Court Birley took part in “grotesque” violence and was “encouraged by malicious and ignorant” social media post. Thomas Birley had previously pleaded guilty to a charge of arson with intent to endanger life, violent disorder, and possessing and offensive weapon.
Elsewhere, former Labour councillor Ricky Jones has pleaded not guilty to the charge of inciting violent disorder at a protest in Walthamstow, east London.
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