Riot defendants appeal against sentencing

Ten people who were imprisoned after the riots in Britain this August appealed against their sentences on Monday of this week.

All are currently serving time in prison.

Their lawyers, along with civil rights groups, are arguing that the sentences are disproportionate.

The cases include appeals by two men who were jailed for four years each after being convicted of setting up Facebook pages inciting disorder. No disorder took place as a result of this.

The three judges sitting in the case are keen to establish if the riots were unprecedented.

If they decide the disorder was of a new and particular nature they could justify the harsh sentences handed down by local crown courts.

The result of the appeals will have an effect on riot cases still to be heard.

The hearing was adjourned on Monday and a judgement will be passed next week.