Six Jailed for Shooting at Police

Six men who took part in a concerted attack which saw riot officers and a police helicopter shot at during last years riots in Birmingham have been jailed for a total of 136 years.

Nicolas Francis, 26, was jailed for 30 years.

Jermaine Lewis, 27, and Tyrone Laidley, 20, were both jailed for 23 years.

Wayne Collins, 25, and Renardo Farrell, 20, each received 18 years.

Amirul Rehman, 17, was sentenced to 12 years.

Among charges against the gang were rioting, reckless arson, and possession of a firearm with intent to endanger life.

Their orgy of violence began with setting a pub, the Barton Arms, on fire, and then lying in wait for police officers to arrive.

After attacking the police with various missiles, officers were forced to dive for cover as the gang opened fire using at least four guns between them.

Shots were then fired at a police helicopter.

"I have never come across a case where the offenders have shown such a blatant disregard for the lives of police officers" said Detective Inspector Andy Bannister, "We could easily be looking at a murder investigation. They are a cowardly group of people."