A 61-year-old grandfather convicted of violent disorder after taking part in a riot outside a hotel used to house asylum seekers, Peter Lynch, has died while serving time in the United Kingdom prison.
Lynch, who was sentenced to two years and eight months, had pleaded guilty to his role in the unrest that took place outside the Holiday Inn Express in Rotherham on August 4.
At his sentencing, Sheffield Crown Court was told how Lynch hurled “racist and provocative remarks” at officers during the disturbance, at one point labeling asylum seekers housed in the hotel as “child killers.”
The court heard that Lynch’s actions escalated the situation, with him being seen on video footage “revving up” the crowd and calling police officers “scum.”
A Prison Service spokesperson confirmed that Lynch, who had been held at HMP Moorland in Doncaster, passed away on Saturday.
The exact cause of his death remains under investigation, with the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman tasked with reviewing the circumstances surrounding it.
His death came months after Lynch had suffered a heart attack and been diagnosed with diabetes, according to his defense team.
Lynch’s involvement in the protest outside the hotel stemmed from his staunch anti-immigration views.
His barrister explained that Lynch had “a general conspiracy theory against anyone and any form of authority.”
On the day of the riot, he had carried a placard emblazoned with claims about government corruption, naming government ministers, MPs, police chiefs, journalists, judges, and even the space agency NASA as part of the “deep state.” The placard reflected his belief in various conspiracy theories.
At the time of his sentencing in August, Lynch was described by his defense as a “very caring” individual who had three grandchildren.
However, the court also heard how his views had led him down a dangerous path, culminating in the violent disorder that landed him in prison.
His participation in the riot, including shouting inflammatory remarks and inciting further unrest, played a significant role in the escalation of the situation.
Lynch, who lived on Burman Road in Wath-upon-Dearne, had been wearing a blue England football hat during the protest. His placard, adorned with bold blue writing, accused various authorities and institutions of corruption, reflecting his deep-seated distrust of those in power.
Despite his defense portraying him as a family man, the judge pointed to Lynch’s role in turning a peaceful protest into a violent confrontation, leading to his conviction.
