Peter Lynch, a grandfather and self-described conspiracy theorist, has died in HMP Moorland, Doncaster, marking a somber milestone as the first inmate connected to this summer’s anti-immigration riots to lose his life while incarcerated. The South Yorkshire Police confirmed Lynch’s death on the night of October 19, 2024, according to reports from the Telegraph.
Background of the riots
Lynch had been sentenced to two years and eight months for his role in the riots, during which he was deemed a “full participant.” His protest on August 4 at the Holiday Inn Express in Rotherham featured a placard that made allegations against police officers, Members of Parliament, and the media, labeling them as “corrupt.”
During the protests, Lynch was recorded making racist and inflammatory comments, including calling asylum seekers “child killers.” Judge Jeremy Richardson KC highlighted the “racist incident” in his sentencing, acknowledging that while Lynch’s protest was not illegal, his inflammatory rhetoric went beyond acceptable limits. Footage played in court depicted Lynch attempting to incite the crowd, with the Recorder of Sheffield stating, “You were unquestionably endeavouring to rev up the situation the best you could.” The placard Lynch carried also referenced a “deep state” and NASA, showcasing his belief in various conspiracy theories.
Investigation following his death
In light of Lynch’s passing, the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman will launch an investigation, a standard procedure for any death in custody. A spokesperson for the prison service confirmed, “HMP Moorland prisoner Peter Lynch died on Oct 19, 2024. As with all deaths in custody, the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman will investigate.”
Family man with controversial views
Known as a “family man,” Lynch had faced health issues prior to his imprisonment, including a heart attack. His defense team argued that his actions stemmed from a general resentment towards authority. Lynch had openly voiced conspiracy theories targeting various institutions, including the government and media. Despite the evidence presented that he incited violence, Lynch maintained that his protests were intended as critiques of systemic issues.
Call for accountability
In response to Lynch’s death, Tommy Robinson tweeted, “Peter Lynch was one of us. A concerned British grandfather. Imprisoned by a corrupt judiciary under orders of @Keir_Starmer. Tormented to suicide, away from his family. We want justice for these political prisoners! Join us in London this Saturday. United we stand, divided we fall!”
The summer riots led to over 1,511 arrests, with approximately 1,000 charges filed in coordination with the Crown Prosecution Service. Amid a growing prison overcrowding crisis, Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood introduced an early release scheme, which allowed certain prisoners—including those convicted for rioting—to qualify for release after serving just 40% of their sentences. Given his sentence of less than four years, Lynch would have been eligible for this program.
Ian Acheson, a former prison governor and government advisor, expressed his sorrow over Lynch’s death, stating, “Any death in custody is a tragedy. Not all can be prevented. However, the profile of this offender, rightly jailed for his role in rioting, suggests to me he ought to have at least been considered as a suicide risk.” He underscored the need for the forthcoming investigation to thoroughly examine Lynch’s vulnerability and the level of care he received during his time in prison.