Woman Jailed for Setting Police Car Ablaze During Bristol Riot
Jasmine York, 26, was found guilty of arson at Bristol Crown Court last month.
Caught on camera, York shoved a large wheelie bin into a police car engulfed in flames during a riot outside Bridewell Police Station on 21 March last year. She was also recorded shouting, “we will burn your ******* cars”.
Fifteenth Convicted for Bristol Police Station Riot
York, from Brislington, Bristol, is the fifteenth person jailed for their part in the disorder. So far, those convicted have received a combined sentence totaling almost 58 years.
Judge Slams York for Feeding the Flames
Sentencing York, His Honour Judge James Patrick dismissed her defence that she acted out of fear. He pointed out that York admitted her actions “did not de-escalate events”.
“You returned to the scene of disorder after having left, which made things worse,” the judge said.
He added: “You were fully aware of the damage your actions caused to police equipment funded by taxpayers. You played your part in the unlawfulness.”
Detective Superintendent Condemns York’s Actions
Detective Superintendent James Riccio said: “Jasmine York unquestionably made the unrest worse that shameful night. She may not have physically attacked officers but she added fuel to the fire of a burning police car, creating an intimidating atmosphere for officers trying to maintain order.”
Note: Criminal proceedings related to the events of 21 March continue against other defendants, who retain the right to a fair trial.
