A police chief says the aftermath of riots that broke out last summer continues to be felt across the region.
“Truly shocking” violent disorder a year ago this week brought out the "very worst and very best" parts of the region, Northumbria Police Chief Superintendent Mark Hall said.
A mob brought terror to the streets of Sunderland as they marched on a Mosque, clashing with police, throwing missiles and setting a car and police building ablaze on Friday August 2 last year. It came after the murders of Alice da Silva Aguiar, nine, Bebe King, six, and Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven, in Southport triggered outcry leading to nationwide disorder.
Ch Supt Hall told the Echo: “Within such a short space of time, we saw some of the very worst and some of the very best kind of scenes in society.
"We were aware of protest activity - and let me be clear, Northumbria Police uphold the right for peaceful protests.
"However, what that escalated into was a minority using it as an opportunity to engage in serious violence."
"We had a number of officers who were, unfortunately, injured during the disorder. It is still being felt, it is still being remembered.
"Their actions had a lasting impact on communities, and in the city it is something that will not be forgotten.
"There were no positive things to come from that riot, only negative.”
The experienced officer, whose two-decade career sees him in charge of Northumbria Police in Sunderland, saw the force’s city office torched and his officers injured.
"On the night of the disorder, officers faced serious, sustained levels of violence,” he continued.
"Property and businesses were being targeted and there was ultimately a serious amount of criminality which was truly shocking.
"We saw a great deal of professionalism from our officers and dedication to keep public property and buildings safe.
"The very next day, large parts of the community came out to help clean and tidy up the city. It's those people we are thankful for coming out and supporting each other."
Holding brooms and bin bags, dozens of volunteers donned high viz jackets to clear away debris the next morning.
But the riot’s conclusion was just the start for Mark’s team who faced a mammoth investigation finding perpetrators and making arrests.
“There were days with long hours and there was a great deal of work to undertake,” he said.
"We wanted to be able to identify as many as we can to send that strong message out.
Read more:
- Police release images of 15 more men wanted after North East summer riots
- 'Screaming' rioter goaded police to fight him during Middlesbrough disorder
- Man who attacked police protecting mosque jailed after admitting riot charge
- Judge rules trio convicted for disorder should not also face 'riot' charge
"It is a testament to the officers dedication who went through CCTV, public statements, still images and more to find those responsible and make arrests.
"In the days that followed, we really stepped up our approach for a visible presence in our communities.”
More than 100 people have been arrested in connection with the Sunderland riot, and 60-years-worth of jail terms handed out.
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