Rioter sentenced to four months in jail at Belfast Magistrates Court

A MAN who was involved in street disorder over the Union flag protests has been sentenced to four months in jail.

Jamie Robert Colgan admitted a charge of riotous behaviour which happend in Newtownabbey just days after the demonstrations began.

He was given the prison term at Belfast Magistrates’ Court on Monday but was released on £500 bail after lodging an appeal against the sentence.

The 23-year-old, of Tulleevin Drive, Newtownabbey, was banned from going within 500 metres of any parade or protest until his challenge is heard.

Colgan was arrested along with other suspects following an outbreak of violence at Drumcree Place on 8 December last year.

Days earlier councillors in Belfast had decided to restrict the flying of the union flag at City Hall, sparking widespread trouble.

Colgan must also stay in accommodation approved by police while out on bail.