Three men sentenced for total of seven years eight months for their roles in disorder across Greater Manchester

Three people received custodial sentences at Manchester Crown Court today (Thursday 15 August 2024). They all pleaded guilty to violent disorder at previous hearings.

• Paul Smith (03/05/2003) of Keynsham Road, Manchester, has been sentenced to two years 10 months for his part in the outbreak of disorder which took place on Oldham Road in Newton Heath on Wednesday 31 July. Smith was also given a community behaviour order lasting seven years.
• Oliver Chapman (13/03/2001) of Duke Street, Radcliffe, has been sentenced to one year eight months for his part in the outbreak of disorder which took place outside Sainsburys supermarket on Mosley Street in Manchester city centre on Saturday 3 August.
• Joseph Ley (25/01/1994) of Hardman Street, Stockport, has been sentenced to three years two months for his part in the outbreak of disorder which took place at Piccadilly Gardens in Manchester city centre on Saturday 3 August. Ley was also charged for being in possession of an offensive weapon.

On today’s results, Detective Chief Inspector Andrew Naismith said: “We are continuing to investigate, locate and trace those who were intent on committing unnecessary violence and remain focused on keeping our communities safe whilst bringing swift justice alongside the Crown Prosecution Service.

“Our ongoing work across several operations has led to 102 suspects being identified, with 73 of those being charged and as the days pass more will start to be convicted for their actions.

“We are still maintaining patrols in key areas to ensure we can respond quickly to any ongoing disorder that may arise and would like to thank the public for their continued support and co-operation as we conduct further enquiries.

“Acts of mindless violence will not be tolerated, and we hope this result sends a clear message that any outbreak of disorder will be dealt with robustly.

“If you were involved in violent disorder expect a knock on the door if you haven’t had one already.”

Officers are still seeking the public’s help in identifying suspects related to disorder across Greater Manchester.

If you have any further information to share or recognise any outstanding people on the following links:

• Newton Heath disorder July 31 - Officers look to speak to men in relation to disorder in Newton Heath | Greater Manchester Police (gmp.police.uk)
• Rochdale disorder July 25 - Detectives want to speak to people after disorder in Rochdale | Greater Manchester Police (gmp.police.uk)
• Mosley Street in Manchester city centre August 3 - Detectives want to speak to people in relation to Manchester city centre disorder | Greater Manchester Police (gmp.police.uk)
• Bolton town centre August 4 - Identity of people sought in relation to Bolton town centre disorder | Greater Manchester Police (gmp.police.uk)
• Piccadilly Gardens August 3 - Images of people released following disorder in Manchester city centre | Greater Manchester Police (gmp.police.uk)

Alternatively, contact us on 101 or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, quoting the relevant operation name.