Portadown man charged with rioting is released on bail despite police objections
A Portadown man charged in connection with the recent disorder in the town has been released on bail by Craigavon Magistrates Court, despite objections by the police.
He appeared before Craigavon Magistrates Court via videolink from Maghaberry Prison on Friday, where he has been in custody since his arrest on June 12.
A police constable, the designated court liaison officer for charges arising from the recent riots across Northern Ireland, told the court that the defendant, 24-year-old Tyler Harvey, whose address was given as Fitzgerald Park in Portadown, was seen by a PSNI air support unit on June 11, 2026 at 00.10 while he was throwing masonry and bottles towards the police in the vicinity of West Street in the town.
It was stated that in total 11 items were thrown by the defendant towards police officers.
Described as wearing a black jacket, black tracksuit bottoms and carrying a black backpack, the defendant was stopped by police in Montague Street, the court heard.
Officers found empty bottles and masonry in the backpack.
The police officer told the court that it was believed the defendant, who was part of a group of 30 people, “appeared to be a ring leader of this group”.
He was subsequently arrested shortly before 1am and he made no comment during police interview.
The officer voiced objections on behalf of the police to the bail application, stating that the address provided by the defendant in Portadown was within half-a-mile of the scene of the incident.
The officer further stated that the police believe the defendant cannot be managed by bail conditions imposed by the court.
However, this was disputed by defence lawyer Miss Downey, who responded: “He is a man with a relatively limited record.
"The address is a 23-minute walk from where the rioting took place in Portadown. He doesn’t have access to a car.
"I don’t agree with police that he can’t be managed. I don’t think it’s fair to say that.
"He has spent the time since his arrest in June in custody.
"He will abide by any conditions the court imposes. He is keen to perfect bail.”
Despite the objections raised by the police, District Judge Michael Ranaghan granted bail to the defendant.
He stated: “It is likely to be at least a year before a trial date is given.
"I think it would be wrong to deny him bail.
"If people are going to riot they will do it anywhere so I am not concerned the address is all that important.
"You are getting a chance from the court,” Mr Ranaghan told the defendant.
He released the defendant on his own bail of £300, with the condition that he does not consume or possess alcohol in a public place, that he is not under the influence of illegal drugs and that he doesn’t get involved in an organised protest.
The defendant was also ordered to wear a tag and is due back before Craigavon Magistrates Court on Friday, July 31, 2026.