'Justice is coming': Prosecutors issue stark warning as first man jailed in Manchester over riots

Prosecutors have issued a stark warning to those involved in the riots that 'justice is coming'.

It comes following the first man to be jailed at Manchester Crown Court following 'ugly' scenes outside a hotel in Newton Heath that was believed to he housing asylum seekers on July 31.

Paul Smith, 21, was involved in the disorder outside the hotel on Oldham Road, the court heard. He was seen on CCTV and body worn footage to launch bricks and missiles at police officers who were trying to protect the hotel, it's staff and occupants.

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He also appeared to throw a 'glass bottle' towards officers. Smith, of Newton Heath, pleaded guilty to violent disorder on Thursday last week at Manchester Magistrates' Court.

Today, at Manchester Crown Court, Crown Square, he was jailed for two years and 10 months. He was also handed a seven year criminal behaviour order.

Speaking outside Manchester Crown Court, Janet Potter, Deputy Chief Crown Prosecutor for the CPS North West, said: "When violent thugs descended on the Holiday Inn Hotel in Manchester on 31 July, in scenes which sparked profound fear and alarm in our community, we were clear that justice would come for those responsible.

"Today, Paul Smith, aged 21, has been jailed for his part in the ugly events of that evening.

"While police attempted to protect the hotel, its staff and occupants from the violent mob, Smith threw bricks and other missiles at officers and police vans.

"Smith pleaded guilty at the first opportunity to violent disorder and that was taken into account by the sentencing judge when he jailed him for two years and ten months.

"I hope this sentence deliver a message to those who choose