Peter Lynch, a 61-year-old grandfather, has died in HMP Moorland, reportedly taking his own life after being jailed for his involvement in a protest against the housing of illegal immigrants.
Lynch was sentenced to two years and eight months in August following a protest at the Holiday Inn Express in Rotherham, where tensions had risen over the government’s immigration policies. Protesters believed the voices of local citizens were being ignored as more asylum seekers were placed in their towns.
During the protest, Lynch expressed frustration at authorities and the media, holding a placard calling them “corrupt”, and yelling at officers.
His sentencing drew criticism from those who felt the punishment was harsh for what they saw as a legitimate outcry over unchecked immigration and the strain it places on local communities.
Lynch had no previous criminal record.
His death in custody has sparked an outcry over the government’s handling of both immigration and its treatment of those who voice opposition to it.
An investigation by the Prisons and Probation Ombudsman is now underway.
