Kill the Bill rioter who attacked police receives 5 year sentence

Mariella Gedge-Rogers hit an officer on the head with a skateboard and threw objects at others during the riot
10 March 2022
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A woman has been jailed after being caught on camera attacking police officers and smashing the window of a police station during a ‘Kill the Bill’ riot in Bristol.

Mariella Gedge-Rogers, of Clifton, Bristol, was found guilty of rioting by a jury at Bristol Crown Court in February this year.

The unanimous verdict convicted Gedge-Rogers of being part of a group which used or threatened violence and, together, caused others to fear for their personal safety.

The 27-year-old was imprisoned for five and a half years at a hearing on Thursday. She will be expected to serve half her sentence in custody and the other half on licence.

Gedge-Rogers was arrested six days after the riot took place outside the Bridewell Police Station in Bristol city centre on Sunday March 21 2021.

In footage played to the court, Gedge-Rogers was seen hitting an officer on the head with a skateboard and throwing objects at other officers from the roof of the station.

She repeatedly hit the station window with her skateboard before passing it to a man for him to do the same.

As the hearing began, Gedge-Rogers could be heard crying from the dock. She spoke only to confirm her name.

His Honour Judge Patrick said: “You used your skateboard as a weapon and threw missiles and objects. You also had had a considerable amount of drink.

“Nevertheless, I conclude that your culpability is lessened because of your PTSD. And I bear in mind that it will make the sentence more difficult for you to serve.

“In addition, you have expressed remorse at what you have done and I’m told you’re ashamed. People who knew you identify that you have behaved out of character.”

Speaking of the impact of the riot on police, Judge Patrick said: “Vile abuse was directed at the police. Objects and missiles were thrown at them, some from above police vans.

“At least one firework was discharged, officers were pulled from their lines. They were physically attacked, some with missiles, some with weapons, and others were struck, spat on, kicked and punched.”

He added that one police officer with significant experience described it as “one of the most frightening experiences in his career,” while another said it was “ferocious, prolonged and determined violence”.

Gedge-Rogers is now the 15th person to be sentenced in connection with the riot.

To date, those sentenced have been jailed for a combined total of more than 50 years.

Jasmine York, 26, of Brislington, Bristol, is due to be sentenced on Monday March 14 after being convicted of arson.

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