Couple Jailed for Hartlepool Riot

Steven Mailen, 54, and his partner Ryan Sheers, 29, were sentenced to two years and two months in prison for their roles in a violent riot in Hartlepool that erupted after they attended a bingo session. Mailen was identified as a key instigator, taunting police and inciting violence among the crowd of about 200 people. Sheers, who was bitten by a police dog during the chaos, admitted to behaving aggressively after consuming alcohol. Both individuals, who have no prior convictions, pleaded guilty to violent disorder. The case exemplifies the legal authorities' determination to hold participants in public unrest accountable, as emphasized by the Crown Prosecution Service. The judge condemned their behavior as disgraceful, highlighting the chaos inflicted upon the community.